Chevron, one of the Philippines’ oldest and largest multinational brands, reaffirmed its dedication to education by returning as a platinum sponsor of the American Chamber Foundation Philippines, Inc.’s (AmCham) 11th ScholaCOLORun. This annual fun run raises scholarship funds for underprivileged Filipino students, providing them with tuition support, allowances, and career development opportunities.
This year, 3,458 runners flocked to Liwasang Ulalim in Pasay City—290 of whom came from Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI) and Chevron Holdings Inc. (CHI). Together, they ran to benefit AmCham’s current batch of 109 scholars.
United to promote access to quality education
Chevron and AmCham have worked closely together for more than 15 years to improve access to quality education. Their efforts have benefited over 2,400 scholars through the years.
AmCham President Edwin Feist recalled when the foundation first conceptualized its multiple educational initiatives, including the annual fun run, 20 years ago. He said, “One way to fight poverty is for people to get an education… [That’s why] we sponsor students as scholars to help in their education and make sure they don’t have to worry about their financial needs.”
He added that Chevron shared AmCham’s vision and has been proactive in helping the foundation mount its educational initiatives. “Chevron also had the same concept that education is very important, so they chose us as their partner to carry on their activities. Today, we continue that partnership in many dimensions.”
For CHI General Manager Ethan Flowers, quality education can help scholars unlock more professional opportunities. “Education is the foundation of the services we deliver for Chevron’s businesses globally. So, we’re happy to support AmCham –– anything we can do to support the education of Filipinos at home.”
Chevron also organized one of the largest delegations during the event. With this, Flowers said, “We are happy to see such a great turnout of folks investing in their health and well-being but also giving back to the communities we operate in.”
Staying fit while supporting students
For Chevron employees Emil Bertolano and Mico Fetalvero, joining the fun run is their way to help send underprivileged youths to school.
Fetalvero reflected that the ScholaCOLORun is especially timely as public schools need more funds for supplies and infrastructure. He said, “Kulang [ang mga public school] sa supplies at budget so mapupunta yung burden sa mga teachers and sa mga students.”
On the other hand, Bertolano has been participating in the annual fun run for the past four years. He pointed out that such fundraising initiatives can help ease teachers’ responsibilities. “It’s like hitting two birds with one stone. Healthy ka na, nakatulong ka pa,” he added.
Chevron remains committed to supporting the Philippine educational sector by continuing its partnerships with AmCham and concerned government agencies.
