Four years ago, the grandmother of Raymond Burgess applied his grandson for the Education for Development Scholarships Program (EDSP) of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration while her daughter works abroad as a household service worker. Now, Raymond is about to start a career with a top IT company in the country after graduating Cum Laude from the University of Santo Tomas with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology. Raymond is just among the many OWWA scholars who graduated with flying colors.
This was reported by OWWA Administrator Carmelita S. Dimzon to Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz of the Department of Labor and Employment who has directed the promotion of Education and Training Benefits for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families.
“As the lead government agency tasked to promote the welfare and well-being of OFWs and their dependents, we congratulate Raymond and all our graduating scholars who make their parents proud as they work for their children’s future abroad”, said Administrator Dimzon.
Raymond who just graduated last March 26, 2011 is now working as a Technology Consultant in Hewlett Packard. He is the son of Jesusa Pantinople who works as a household service worker in the Cayman Islands.
“I thank OWWA for the scholarship that helped me finish college and also my mom who will always be my inspiration as I strive to reciprocate her sacrifices abroad to bring me where I am now”, said Raymond.
EDSP scholars of four-to-five-year baccalaureate courses are given a maximum of P60, 000 per year. Aside from EDSP, OWWA scholarships for OFW dependents include the Skills-for-Employment Scholarship Program for vocational or technical courses; OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (ODSP) for needy but deserving students and the Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program.
Like Raymond, other OWWA graduates came from prestigious schools like UP, Ateneo, La Salle, UST, FEU, Mapua, Western Mindanao University and Siliman University to name a few.
“We, at OWWA, will remain committed to support our OFWs in their dream to provide the best education to their children”, added Administrator Dimzon.-30- Rey D. Tayag, OIC, ASMD, OWWA
