The Abante Lumad Scholarship stands as a testament to the enduring vision of the late Brother Wilfredo “Willy” Lubrico, FMS, former President of Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU). More than just a program, it is a living legacy—one rooted in compassion, inclusivity, and the transformative power of education.

Bro. Willy was more than an educator. To many, he was family, a friend, a teacher, a colleague, a servant-leader, and most of all, a visionary. His unwavering dedication to uplifting the marginalized, especially the Lumad youth, became the driving force behind the establishment of this scholarship program. Through his leadership, the Abante Lumad Scholarship Fund was launched at NDMU with the mission of providing deserving Lumad students the chance to pursue and complete their college education.

The scholarship fund was first seeded through the sales of a book that Bro. Willy envisioned—a project brought to life through the genius and commitment of Prima Guipo Hower and Dr. Briccio Baynosa. As Prima herself described, it was purely a “labor of love.” Every copy sold carried not just words, but the promise of hope for a brighter future for Lumad scholars.

In honor of Bro. Willy’s vision, the Notre Dame of General Santos City Alumni Association International, Inc. (USA) under the leadership of President Lulut Palacios Chan, turned over ₱100,000 to NDMU for the scholarship fund. Further support came in November 2023, when Allan Palacios Chan Jr. staged a benefit concert in General Santos City, raising an additional ₱50,000, which was likewise handed over to sustain the scholarship.
This collective effort demonstrates the spirit of solidarity and service that lies at the heart of the Notre Dame community. It also reflects how alumni, friends, and partners continue to keep alive the mission of Bro. Willy—to empower Lumad youth through education, and to ensure that they too can dream, achieve, and lead.

The Abante Lumad Scholarship is more than just financial aid—it is a bridge of compassion and opportunity. It honors the memory of a beloved Marist brother whose life was defined by service, and it celebrates the power of community in making education accessible to all.
As the scholarship fund grows, so does the hope that more Lumad scholars will rise, thrive, and carry forward the values of excellence, service, and love for others.

 “Abante Lumad” — a legacy of faith, love, and education that lives on through every scholar’s success.