The old adage, “Education is the key to success”, maybe a cliché to many of us but definitely not to the scholars of Bantay Bata 163 and Singapore Airlines.
Bantay Bata 163, in partnership with Singapore Airlines (SIA), welcomed the new school year 2016-2017 together with the 128 scholars supported by the partnership. Most of the scholars came from the provinces. Only 33 are from Manila. Last July 23, Bantay Bata, SIA and the scholars gathered together in an Opening Assembly to encourage the children before the new school year started.
Aside from the financial assistance, the scholars, with big smiles on their faces, also received school supplies and certificates of recognition. More than anything else, the support and guidance that Bantay Bata 163 and SIA give to the scholars continue to inspire them to pursue their studies to achieve their dreams.
“Nakakapag aral po ako ng maayos dahil sa binibigay po sa amin ng Singapore Airlines. Kayo po ang makatutulong sa akin sa pagtatapos ko po ng pag aaral. Maraming Salamat po sa Singapore Airlines at Bantay Bata 163” (I was able to continue my studies because of Singapore Airlines. I know that SIA will help me to finish my studies. Thank you very much to Singapore Airlines and to Bantay Bata 163), shared Kevin, one of the scholars.
“Thank you po Singapore Airlines, kasi po isa po kayo sa inspirasyon ko para mag aral nang mabuti at para po mag sipag sa pag aaral.” (Thank you to Singapore Airlines, you are one of my inspirations to do well on my studies.) Gel, Grade 5, stated.
Each of the scholars believes that Bantay Bata 163 and SIA’s help is a bridge for them to reach their dreams and to free them from the clutches of poverty.
General Manager of SIA, Carol Ong did not disappoint the children as she promised to continue the good charity and partnership hwith Bantay Bata 163. For Ong, it is a high privilege to be a part of the Bantay Bata advocacy in providing education to less fortunate children.
As Ong ended her speech, she left a short but meaningful message for the scholars: “The sky is the limit, always reach for the highest”.