Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI) officers with graduated scholars during the recognition event conducted last January 31, 2025

Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI) honored 29 of its scholars, where 27 have earned bachelor’s degrees and 2 completed master’s degrees, in a ceremony conducted at Security Bank Centre Makati City last January 31, 2025. Sixty percent of graduates or 17 earned Latin honors – 1 who is SBFI’s 1st Summa Cum Laude scholar graduate, 8 Magna Cum Laude, and 8 Cum Laude.

John Rojell Elizaga, a son of a construction worker and a utility worker, graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with a degree in Journalism. His journey was not easy, but his perseverance and belief in education kept him going.

Reflecting on his struggles, John shared how his commitment to education grew stronger. “As I walked to school every day, I saw that many in my family didn’t place much value on education. But walking those long distances taught me otherwise. I came to understand that education was not just my way out—it was my way forward,” said John who also worked part-time while studying.

Many SBFI scholars faced similar challenges, especially since they began their college years during the pandemic. With some having no laptops and relying on mobile data, online learning was a struggle especially during the pandemic. But with the support of SBFI, combined with their own resilience and determination, they pushed through and successfully earned their degrees.

SBFI scholarship alumna Honey Lynn Gutierrez – Quiat, now a Senior Vice President at Citibank Philippines, inspired recent graduates at the recognition event. She shared her journey of struggling to afford college, finding the SBFI scholarship, and working part-time to cover expenses. “Always learn to accept your current situation, rise above it, and never be ashamed to share your story. Harness that scarcity mindset we’ve all gained as scholars and incorporate them in how you plan your future,” she advised.

“The values and work ethics of our scholars are what we hope to see more for our Filipino youth and the citizens of our country. Their stories and examples prove that we shall continue investing in having more of their kind in our society and to actively engage them in nation-building through social responsibility programs,” expressed SBFI Chairman Rafael F. Simpao, Jr.

The Foundation’s scholars are a mix of Security Bank employees who pursued post-graduate studies, the children of employees, the children of agency personnel, as well as the recipients of scholarship grants offered to 8 partner schools in Metro Manila.

Among the graduates, one is a daughter of an officer who passed away in 2020 and whose daughter’s education is continued by SBFI allowing her to graduate as cum laude. Three graduates are children of messengers, including one who has served the Bank for 22 years. Two graduates are children of security guards with 28 and 32 years of service. Another graduate is a child of a CCTV Operator at the Bank’s Head Office for the past 9 years. Four graduates are children of Security Bank employees: one is a Branch Business Manager, and three are assigned to various Head Office units, with one parent having served the Bank for over 30 years. Additionally, three scholars are employees themselves—two completed master’s degrees, and one completed a bridging program for a BS Accountancy degree.

The Foundation has already supported over 2,000 scholars, graduated 225 scholars in college with 63 obtaining Latin honors.