Powering the Future: From Financial Grantee to Electrical Engineer

Community development and corporate social responsibility are all about building futures, and one of the greatest steps a company can take is supporting the next generation. For 16 years, Subic EnerZone Corporation and the Aboitiz Foundation Inc. have worked together to uplift the youth, community, and environment of Olongapo City. Recently, the success of their High School Financial Assistance Program proved just how profound a company's dedication to education can be.

As a beautiful testament to this support, Subic EnerZone proudly welcomed Engr. Richmond Calizar back through its doors—no longer as a financial grantee, but as an officially hired Electrical Engineer.

When the program first launched in 2010, it initially provided assistance to students from Grade 7 to Grade 10. In 2016, the initiative shifted its focus to support Grade 11 and Grade 12 students. Having been a scholar from 2013 to 2018, Engr. Calizar belonged to the very last batch of students to receive support under that original Grade 7 to Grade 10 structure.

The path to becoming an Electrical Engineer was far from easy. When asked what kept him going during his hardest moments as a working student, Calizar credited his support system. "There were times when I felt like just giving up and moving on," he admitted. "But knowing that Subic EnerZone believed in my potential, combined with my family's support, gave me the motivation to persevere and cross the finish line."

While juggling his demanding studies at the Technological University of the Philippines, he also worked in the BPO industry to support himself until graduation. Despite the grueling schedule, he never gave up on his dream.

Reflecting on his time as a Subic EnerZone grantee, Calizar described his return to the company as surreal. When asked what it feels like to walk through those doors today—powering the very company that believed in his potential from the very beginning—his gratitude was undeniable.

"It still feels like a dream to me," Calizar shared. "I didn't expect to be back here not as a student, but as an Electrical Engineer. Being able to work for the company that believed in me first feels like everything has come full circle. It's the best way I know how to say thank you." Today, the mission to support Olongapo City's youth continues. With Engr. Calizar’s professional journey now underway, Subic EnerZone is ready to help a new generation of students reach their dreams.

The Financial Assistance Program is officially accepting new applications from Grade 11 students, as well as renewals for Grade 12 students who were scholars last year. The application window is open until May 29, 2026. After all, the company's next great engineer might just be one application away from walking through those very same doors.