Most Filipino families—regardless of social standing—believe that education plays a vital role in a person’s success. That’s why this year’s Balik Eskwela is different and more important for many parents and students. As young learners transition back to the new normal after overcoming the pandemic’s uncertainties and difficulties, Bear Brand is sparing no effort to inspire and encourage children to dream big and secure a better future for themselves and their families.
Recognizing exceptional students in the Philippines
Although every student made sacrifices and experienced difficulties in their studies over the past year, some kids faced more complex challenges due to their everyday living situations. However, despite these obstacles, they have displayed their eagerness to learn and overcome life’s adversities. Bear Brand has been honoring the strength and resilience of these young people since 2018 through the Batang Matibay Awards. Last October 27, the 2022 Batang Matibay Awards was held in Screening Room 1, Cinema Complex of Estancia Mall, Pasig.
4 of the Batang Matibay Awardees with Mr. Atom Araullo as the host and Mr. Russell Lipchin, BEO of NESTLE Philippines
Mr. Russell Lipchin, BEO of NESTLE Philippines, delivering his speech to all guests
4 Batang Matibay Awardees who showcased how to be a Batang Matibay
Mr. Atom Araullo with Ms. Regina Nario-Mendoza, Brand Manager of NESTLE Philippines
In partnership with the Department of Education, Bear Brand started the Batang Matibay Awards to recognize students who exhibited “tibay” in learning in school and life. This means not only do they show excellence in academics, but also the community and their families. Every Year, Bear Brand and DepEd call for nationwide nominations of ten Batang Matibay public school students from grades 5-6 who can serve as role models and inspirations to their families, school, and community.
2022 Batang Matibay Awardees
Bear Brand continues its commitment to building a generation of Batang Matibay by announcing this year’s Batang Matibay awardees. All 10 Batang Matibay awardees showed exemplary courage and strength to thrive despite their struggles.
One of the awardees is Jerald Pelonita from Guihulngan, Negros Oriental. Despite being born without arms, he rose above his peers and was hailed as Champion for the Division level National Art Contest. He displayed commendable skill in drawing and painting using his foot.
Cryzon Jay Ambinang belongs to the Manobo tribe and lives in a secluded area on a mountainside in North Cotabato. He walks more than 2 hours to one of DepEd’s last-mile schools. Despite his struggles, he excels in school and extracurricular activities, including being Vice President of SPG, which leads several projects in their school. One of those is the distribution of modules in his community and organizing a feeding program for the Manobos.
Despite his financial difficulties, Mark John Alayon from Roxas, Capiz, is a model student. His mother is a cancer patient, while his father works as a construction worker. Even though the everyday struggles torment his young heart, he excels in school and is consistently chosen as a homeroom officer in class. He also joins programs sponsored by his school or barangay Mark John does all these while helping his father raise livestock, plant vegetables, do household chores, take care of his mother, and study.
All the awardees have in common are the lifelong learnings ingrained in them at a young age. Bear Brand wants to nurture their tibay ng isip, tibay ng katawan, and tibay ng kalooban and help them secure a better future by recognizing their efforts. In addition, with every glass of Bear Brand Powdered Milk, the awardees are provided with a holistic Tibay Nutrition that will keep them strong while facing life’s challenges.
Karina is not your ordinary supermom. She juggles her time bonding with her three amazing kids while being in the loop on the latest happenings in the tech and lifestyle scene. Follow me on Instagram (@digitalfilipina) regularly visit www.digitalfilipina.com for daily dose of updates not just for moms but for everyone!
