Empowering Students in the Philippines: Spice Factory's EDGE Scholarship Initiative

On October 17, the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Spice Factory Inc. launched its unique scholarship program in the Philippines, designed to support students from impoverished backgrounds. This initiative is part of the company's broader commitment to addressing social issues and fostering sustainable development through education.

Overview of the Scholarship Program

The EDGE Scholarship, which stands for Empowerment, Development, Growth, and Education, was established in 2023 through Spice Factory's local office. Since its inception, the program has helped five students continue their studies, with a particular focus on those facing financial difficulties.

The scholarship covers the educational and living expenses of deserving candidates for the duration of their four-year university education. Each month, students are invited to the local office to discuss their academic progress and personal circumstances, ensuring they receive both financial support and guidance to navigate their educational journeys.

Recent Challenges and Community Support

In light of the devastating earthquake that struck near Cebu Island, Philippines, on September 30, 2025, Spice Factory has expressed its condolences to the victims and their families. The company has been proactive in checking on the safety of its employees and scholarship recipients and has contributed to relief efforts by donating to the university that supports its students. This assistance will help provide essential supplies to those affected by the disaster.

This support aligns with the company's mission to create a sustainable society that balances economic growth and social problem-solving. As part of the ongoing efforts, Spice Factory has established the "Hummingbird Project," which allocates at least 3% of its profits to social contribution activities.

The Impact of the EDGE Scholarship

The five scholarship recipients are demonstrating significant academic success:

- Diana Villaraza, 19: A second-year student who achieved first place in her semester, earning a full scholarship for her tuition this term.
- Elvis: Also a second-year student who is excelling in his studies, particularly in challenging mathematics courses.
- Joshua: A third-year student recognized on the Dean’s List for his outstanding academic performance.
- Bryce: Another second-year student who narrowly missed the Dean’s List and continues to aim for higher achievements.
- Princess: A fourth-year student who has shown remarkable improvements and is set to start an internship at Spice Factory in January 2026.

These students have not only benefitted from financial aid but have also expressed gratitude for the belief in their potential, which has strengthened their confidence and resolve to succeed academically.

The Importance of Education in the Philippines

According to UNICEF, the poverty rate in the Philippines decreased from 13.2% in 2021 to 10.9% in 2023. However, approximately 3 million households still struggle to meet basic living standards. Notably, around 1.6 million children aged 5 to 17 are out of school, with economic factors being a substantial barrier to their education.

Furthermore, the Philippines faces significant risks from natural disasters, making access to continuous education even more precarious. Spice Factory's EDGE Scholarship is vital in breaking the cycle of poverty by providing opportunities for students to achieve their academic goals and uplifting their families and communities.

A Call to Action for Partnerships

Spice Factory invites businesses to collaborate in expanding this initiative's reach and impact. The EDGE Scholarship represents the first step in building a sustainable future for young Filipinos. Addressing systemic issues like poverty requires collective effort. Therefore, we encourage interested companies to join us in our mission.

For more information on partnership opportunities, please contact us at [email protected].

Spice Factory Inc. is committed to catalyzing digital transformation across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and public administration, helping businesses solve challenges and achieve growth. Our mission is to be an "innovation catalyst" as we strive to make the world a better place, one pixel at a time.