Australia Awards Philippines

“Australia is an excellent destination for postgraduate education because of its cultural diversity and respect for Indigenous Peoples. As a member of an Indigenous community, I value studying in a country that honours my heritage.”

Ivyrose B. Paz is the pride of the Obo MonuvuIndigenous community in Cotabato Province. She is the second member of the community to become a lawyer.

The new batch of Australia Awards scholars recently paid a courtesy visit to Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega and Consul General Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil at the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney.

Through Australia Awards, these Filipino scholars are pursuing postgraduate studies aligned to the priority areas in the Philippines-Australia strategic partnership, enabling them to make a difference in their fields and communities upon their return.

Australia Awards alumna Mary Rose Santillan from the Public-Private Partnership Center (PPP) Center helps build resilience in the Philippine water supply sector.

Empowered by her Master of Environmental Engineering from the University of Melbourne, Mary Rose developed the Water Supply Resiliency Guide as her re-entry action plan for Australia Awards. This helps project officers of the PPP Center, local government units, and water districts develop and evaluate local water supply projects.

Mary Rose completed her postgraduate program in 2020. She currently works at the PPP Center as a Project Development Officer III.

Bret Gutierrez describes his life in Australia as a journey marked by personal growth and unforgettable experiences. Amidst the challenges of being a scholar during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bret focused on pursuing his passions and dreams, and on making a significant contribution as a public health professional.

“Australia not only nurtured my academic aspirations but also allowed me to thrive in my artistic pursuits, proving that even in challenging times, one can find a way to pursue their passions, dreams, and make a significant contribution to society.”

Marie Bembie Girado proved that Australia Awards are more than just a qualification, but a life-changing opportunity to make a difference. After receiving world-class education in a nourishing, vibrant, and multicultural environment, Bembie started pursuing new dreams – this time not just for herself, but for her country.

“I've had the pleasure of meeting incredible people from various backgrounds during my travels and studies. The connections I've made with people from diverse cultures have broadened my horizons and perspectives. I'm grateful for the chance to embark on this educational adventure in Australia.”

Kent Marjur Primor describes his Australia Awards journey as a holistic experience. While in Australia, Kent not only received world-class education, but also enjoyed Australia’s vibrant natural outdoors – from watching kangaroos and cockatoos to playing in the Snowy Mountains.

“My Australia Awards Journey has enriched not only my technical skills but also contributed immensely on my spiritual growth, mental health, financial stability, positive outlook, attitude, and quality of life.”

Cleodette Lagata completed her Master of Environmental Management from University of Queensland in 2021. Despite living and studying in Australia during the pandemic, Cleodette was able to not only finish her studies, but also experience Australia’s natural wonders. A month after returning home, Cleodette became one of the firsts in Australia and the Philippines to become Carbon Literate certified.

“As a Filipino scholar, I am most proud that I was able to carry the Philippine flag with grace and honour.”

Mackee Sevilla completed her Master of Science in Public Policy and Management at Carnegie Mellon University-Australia in 2020. While in Australia, Mackee did not only gain global perspectives and world-class education, but she also enjoyed a balanced student life by exploring Australia and immersing herself in Australian culture.

"During my stay in Australia, I was able to see beautiful places, make good conversations, establish connections, and be more independent. I recommend studying in Australia because of its people and culture," she said.

Studying abroad amidst the pandemic may be challenging, but Nelia Agbon dedicated herself not only to finishing her studies with high distinction, but also to doing volunteer work and supporting her fellow scholars at the height of the pandemic. While in Australia, Nelia served as the Vice-President for External Affairs of the Filipino-Australian Student Council of Victoria, giving her the chance to help Filipino students in difficult situations during the pandemic.

“Through Australia Awards, I was able to show that as Filipino scholars, we can excel and stand shoulder to shoulder with other international students. To carry the Filipino pride in all these was truly an honour,” she says.

Nelia completed her Master of International Development Practice at Monash University in 2021.

Passion is not enough to make a difference. One needs the skills and competencies to act on and live your passion. This is the reason why I enthusiastically pursued a meaningful year and half at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) through the Australia Awards Scholarship.

Filipino scholar Ramon Carlo Pio Roda recently completed his Master of Commerce in Enterprise System from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Business School at the top of his class.

"Australia Awards has not only provided us with the opportunity for further studies in some of the best universities, but has given us irreplaceable memories and unimaginable growth, both academically and personally."

"I left curious and arrived inspired. From #IskolarNgBayan to #IskolarParaSaBayan - grateful to Australia Awards Philippines for the countless opportunities and incredible network, but most especially the life skills I earned along the way, enabling me to bloom into a better version of myself."

From completing almost three semesters at his rented apartment, travelling around Australia with fellow Filipino scholars, to receiving an award for academic excellence, Jay Allen Villon shares his rewarding Australia Awards journey amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Through Australia Awards, I was able to go out of my comfort zone, overcome numerous academic and personal obstacles, and realise strengths that could contribute to the ongoing process of personal and professional development."

Jay completed his Master of Inclusive and Special Education at Monash University where he received the Dean's Award for Academic Excellence from the Faculty of Education, and the Academic Medal for Excellence in Graduate Coursework Study.

The challenges of the pandemic did not stop Australia Awards alumna Ria San Gabriel from reaching her dreams and making a difference.

“I left curious and arrived inspired. From #IskolarNgBayan to #IskolarParaSaBayan--grateful to Australia Awards Philippines for the countless opportunities and incredible network, but most especially the life skills I earned along the way, enabling me to bloom into a better version of myself."

Ria completed her Master in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at University of Queensland in 2021.