In the Philippines, where Christian faith continues to shape the life of many communities, education remains a vital pathway to the future for countless young people. Within this context, the Mabuhay Scholarship Programme, promoted by the Canossian Daughters of Charity, supports students from different parts of the country in their academic, human and spiritual formation.
As part of this journey, Mabuhay scholars recently gathered for a day of reflection and formation designed to deepen their understanding of the programme and strengthen their sense of belonging to the community that sustains it.
A programme centred on the person
The gathering began with an orientation session on the Mabuhay scholarship programme led by Sr Joan H. Sierra, a member of the Canossian Daughters of Charity. During the meeting, students were introduced to the vision and values that guide the initiative.
The Mabuhay programme offers more than financial assistance for education. Its purpose is to accompany young people in a path of integral development, where academic commitment goes hand in hand with human and spiritual growth.
Students are encouraged to approach their studies with both responsibility and gratitude, aware that the gifts they cultivate today can become tools to serve society and support their own communities in the future.
As Sr Sierra reminded the participants:
“Education is a gift, but it is also a responsibility. What you learn today can become a way of serving others and helping to build more just and compassionate communities.”
A moment to pause and reflect
Alongside the formation session, the gathering also included a time for quiet reflection and prayer. The students were invited to pause from their daily routines and renew their relationship with God.
In a context often marked by the pressures of study and the challenges of everyday life, moments like these offer an opportunity to rediscover the deeper meaning of one’s journey and to draw strength from faith.
Growing together as a community
The day concluded with the celebration of the Holy Mass, bringing everyone together in a spirit of gratitude and communion. Through shared prayer, the scholars entrusted their ongoing journey of learning and life to God.
The name of the programme itself expresses its spirit. “Mabuhay,” a Filipino word commonly used as a greeting or expression of welcome, literally means “long live” or “may you live well.” It is a word that celebrates life and expresses hope for the future.
For the students who take part in the initiative, Mabuhay becomes far more than a scholarship. It is a community that walks alongside young people as they grow—helping them to develop not only as students, but also as men and women ready to place their talents at the service of others.
