The Pilar Palacios Pe Scholarship Fund at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU) is more than financial assistance—it is a living tribute to the transformative power of education and the spirit of generosity that runs deep within the Notre Dame community.
A Meaningful Beginning
In March 2024, the Notre Dame Schools of General Santos City Alumni Association International, Inc. formally sealed its commitment to this cause through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with NDDU. The scholarship, dedicated to supporting a four-year Bachelor of Elementary Education major in Early Childhood Education, was jumpstarted with an initial ₱300,000 donation from the alumni association.
The MOA signing was both ceremonial and heartfelt, attended by:
- Orman Ortega Manansala, Alumni President
- Ruben Tugari, NDDU Alumni Coordinator
- Joan Java, NDDU Finance Officer
- Dr. Ersweetcel Servano, Dean, College of Education
- Alvin Francis Ambe, NDDU Scholarship Coordinator
Also present were the first scholarship recipient, Gayle C. Caballero, and her mother, Mrs. Sonieta Caballero, a dedicated public school teacher. With tears of gratitude, Mrs. Caballero expressed what words could barely capture—the immense impact of this opportunity on their family.
Before the formal signing, Alumni President Orman Manansala shared the inspiring story behind the scholarship and encouraged Gayle to excel in her studies, embody the ideals of Notre Dame, and, most importantly, pay it forward.
A Growing Scholarship, A Growing Legacy
In true Damean spirit, the alumni association has since worked tirelessly to expand the reach of the scholarship.
During the Balik Damean Reunion in February 2025, the successful concert of Allan Palacios Chan Jr. and the generous raffle fundraiser spearheaded by the Notre Dame Dadiangas/Lagao Batch 1971 raised additional funds that will support another deserving scholar. This time, the scholarship will cover a four-year degree in Bachelor of Special Needs Education (BSNED)—a noble and compassionate field that promises lasting impact in the lives of children with special needs.
Immediate Past President Nene Cababat Jackson expressed deep gratitude to her Batch ’71 classmates for their solidarity and kindness:
“This generous act means we will again be able to support a scholar through college. Salamat, Batch ’71 — you continue to be a beacon of Damean spirit and service.”
A Scholarship With a Heart
From its first recipient to the next, the Pilar Palacios Pe Scholarship Fund continues to live up to its mission: to educate hearts and minds, invest in futures, and keep alive the values of service and compassion.
With every scholar supported, the legacy of Pilar Palacios Pe shines brighter—a reminder that education is not just about learning, but about transforming lives and communities.
Through this scholarship, the Notre Dame family proves once again that when we give, we do not just change one life—we help shape a better future for all.
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