26 February 2026, Seoul, Republic of Korea — The Philippine Embassy in the Republic of Korea joined in celebrating Filipino scholars at the Awarding Ceremony of the Woojung Education and Culture Foundation Scholarship Program for the Second Semester of 2025, held on 26 February 2026 at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry Building in Seoul.

Six Filipino students were recognized as scholarship recipients following a rigorous selection process that evaluated academic excellence, leadership qualities, and commitment to community service. The awardees are:

• 1.    Jasper Roldan Go
• 2.    Mary Delia Bondoc
• 3.    Janine Marie Balbedina
• 4.    Kenn Arcenal
• 5.    Van Aldren Canas
• 6.    Shanelle Aira Rodrigazo

Since 2010, the Woojung Education and Culture Foundation has provided support to foreign students in the Republic of Korea, selecting scholars biannually through nominations and recommendations from diplomatic missions. The program promotes academic excellence and provides financial assistance to deserving students pursuing higher education in Korea.

Her Excellency Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines to the Republic of Korea, graced the ceremony and delivered a toast congratulating Chairman Lee Joong Keum, the members of the Board, the Booyoung Group, representatives from 14 diplomatic missions, and the 102 scholarship recipients from 32 countries.

In her toast, Ambassador Fernandez underscored the Foundation’s close cooperation with the Embassy in ensuring that scholarship opportunities reach deserving Filipino students. She expressed appreciation for the Foundation’s steadfast commitment to advancing education and fostering international friendship.

As the Philippines and the Republic of Korea commemorate the 77th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year, the Ambassador conveyed her hope for a stronger and more enduring partnership between the two nations and their peoples.

The Philippine Embassy extends its sincere congratulations to the Filipino scholars, commends the Woojung Education and Culture Foundation for its continued support to the international student community, and reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that expand educational opportunities and strengthen people-to-people ties between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea. END