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Vienna, Austria—8 December 2024, In a heartfelt celebration of generosity and shared purpose, the Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES) hosted a Thanksgiving afternoon tea at the prestigious Haas & Haas Tea House in Vienna. The event honored the unwavering support of sponsors, donors, and supporters who have propelled PACES towards the realization of its mission of supporting “needy but outstanding Filipino university students in the form of scholarships in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)” with the vision of a sustainable scholarship program in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) leading towards a strong scientific and technical base in the Philippines.”
Highlighting Educational Milestones
Dr. Jane Gerardo-Abaya, the esteemed president of PACES and a proud recipient of the Pamana ng Pilipino Award from the Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) delivered an inspiring presentation during the gathering. She recounted the history of PACES, emphasizing its raison d’ etre and the volunteer work of its officers. Dr. Gerardo Abaya proudly announced PACES’ newest milestone: selecting six undergraduate university students and seven vocational education students to receive scholarship support beginning in the school year 2024-2025. Founded in 2016, PACES has prioritized the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) as a key driver for Philippine development and progress.
The STEM Scholarship Programme has already produced a group of accomplished alumni, including eight graduates with Bachelor of Science diplomas and professional engineering certifications. These alumni are now making significant contributions to their respective fields, embodying the values and aspirations of PACES. Their successes underscore the program’s transformative impact on the lives of young Filipinos and their communities.
Under Dr. Gerardo-Abaya’s leadership, PACES has expanded its educational support for STEM students to include university-level and technical-vocational education. The college/university-level STEM scholarships, which have already enabled eight students to
graduate with Bachelor of Science degrees and professional certifications, will continue with the award of six new scholars in partnership with ANCOP. The recipients include promising students pursuing degrees in civil, industrial, and computer engineering and engineering technology.
The new STEM scholars are:
• Cervantes, Ma. Ellaine Chavez, incoming 4th year, B.S. Civil Engineering at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
• Galang, Larenz, incoming 4th year, B.S. Industrial Engineering at Bulacan State University
• Goliman, Christine Mae Buslon, incoming 4th year, Bachelor in Engineering Technology at Technological University of the Philippines Cavite campus
• Padilla, Christian, incoming 3rd year, B.S. Computer Engineering at Colegio de Muntinlupa
• Sambuena, Janna Andrea Cadungog, incoming 3rd year, B.S. Civil Engineering at Colegio de Muntinlupa
• Silva, John Laurence Piulo, incoming 3rd year, Bachelor in Engineering Technology at Technological University of the Philippines
In a landmark move, PACES also supports technical and vocational education and training (TVET) through a partnership with Don Bosco One TVET Philippines. This initiative aligns with the Philippine government’s efforts to enhance opportunities for youth through nondiploma courses.
Seven high school graduates from Palawan have been awarded TVET scholarships in courses such as Electro-Mechanical Technology, Automotive Mechanics, and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. Jeric A. Apolinario, Electro-Mechanical Technology.
The new TVET scholars are:
• Menald D. Bables, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
• Ruslan A. Boriones, Automotive Mechanic
• Joedel P. Dela Torre, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
• Nelson P. Galigao, Electro-Mechanical Technology
• Kimberly I. Gonzales, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
• Mavie R. Pavia, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Upcoming Initiatives: ALSE OF-LIFE Program in Vienna
PACES will co-host the Ateneo Leadership, Financial Literacy, and Social Entrepreneurship (ALSE OF-LIFE) Program in Vienna in early 2025 as part of its broader educational initiatives. An online information session on January 11, 2025, will provide an overview of the six-month Executive Education Certificate Course. This program, developed by the Ateneo School of the government in collaboration with the Migrant Workers Office in Vienna and PACES, equips Filipino migrants and their families with leadership skills, financial literacy, and innovative social entrepreneurship tools.
Since its launch in Rome in 2008, ALSE OF LIFE has empowered over 5,000 Filipinos across 39 countries, fostering nation-building and community leadership. Filipinos in Austria are encouraged to register for the January 11 session at https://bit.ly/ALSEViennaInfoSession or Contact PACES for more details.
A Vision for Progress
Dr. Gerardo-Abaya emphasized the transformative impact of these initiatives, urging the continued support of PACES’ benefactors. She noted, “Your generosity has already changed lives; with your steadfast commitment, we can do much more.”
The Thanksgiving Afternoon Tea celebrated shared achievements and reaffirmed the organization’s vision for the future. It was a time for fellowship, reflection, and looking forward to the positive impact that PACES will continue to make, thanks to the steadfast backing of its community of benefactors and friends in Austria and the Philippines.
Support PACES: Passion, Action, Services for the Filipino Youth
PACES invites you to make a difference by supporting its mission to empower financially. challenged but academically deserving Filipino youth. Your generosity enables PACES to provide scholarships, promote STEM education, and foster cultural exchange between the Philippines and Austria.
How You Can Help
Sign a donation pledge form now and become a partner in shaping a brighter future for Filipino scholars. Your contributions, no matter the amount, will directly impact students’ lives. striving for academic excellence and professional success.
Bank Details for Donations
Account Name: Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES)
Bank Name: Bank Austria
IBAN: AT95 1200 0100 1707 8659
BIC: BKAUATWW
ZVR Zahl: 749234388
For more information or to request a donation pledge form, please contact PACES at office@paces-stem.org or visit the website at www.paces-stem.org. Unite for Passion, Action, and Services for the Filipino Youth!!!!
About PACES
The Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES) is a Vienna-based non-profit. an organization dedicated to empowering Filipino youth through educational opportunities while fostering strong cultural ties between the Philippines and Austria. For more information about PACES’ mission and programs, visit their official website.
Photos: Marizel Rojas
About the Author
Sarah Jozelle Rojas is pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Vienna. She finished a course in Fashion Communications at the University of Arts London. Her interests include fashion, traveling, and pole dancing. She also enjoys sampling different cuisines. An avid and indiscriminate reader, she expresses her biculturalism through her poetry.
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