Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI), through its Basic Education Department, proudly honors the achievement of its Grade 11 STEM Strand student, Ma. Alexandria C. Candel, who has been officially recognized as a recipient of the Real Excellence Online (REO) UPCAT Review Scholarship Program. This accomplishment highlights her outstanding academic potential, her commitment to excellence, and the values-driven education she continues to receive at HCCCI.

The Real Excellence Scholarship Program is a highly competitive and merit-based initiative that provides deserving students with the opportunity to undergo a comprehensive UPCAT review—an invaluable preparation for those aspiring to enter the University of the Philippines, the country’s premier state university. By being selected, Candel has joined the group of students nationwide who are recognized as capable, resilient, and worthy of support in their journey toward becoming future Iskolar ng Bayan.

For Candel, being chosen as a Real Excellence Scholar serves both as recognition of her past efforts and as motivation to push further in pursuit of her dreams. Reflecting on her journey, she stated:

“As I reflect on my academic journey, I’m reminded of the countless hours of dedication, perseverance, and passion that have fueled my pursuit of knowledge. With a strong desire to excel and make the most of opportunities, I’m confident that being part of the REO UPCAT Review will unlock doors to a brighter future, empowering me to reach my full potential and achieve my dreams.”

Her words mirror the aspirations of many young Filipinos who view education not only as a personal achievement but also as a pathway to creating meaningful change for their families, communities, and society at large.

Candel’s achievement is also a reflection of the holistic formation she has received at HCCCI, where academic preparation is balanced with values-based education. Her recognition as a Real Excellence Scholar embodies the CORE Values instilled in every HCCCI learner: Spiritual Growth, Teamwork and Creativity, Accountability and Discipline, Integrity and Trust, Reliability, and Serviceability and Social Responsibility.

These values shape not only her personal discipline and perseverance but also the spirit of collaboration, ethical leadership, and social awareness that define the HCCCI learning community. At HCCCI, education is not merely about passing examinations; it is about forming future professionals who are competent, compassionate, and globally competitive.

The Real Excellence Scholarship award also reflects HCCCI’s mission and vision. As an institution, HCCCI remains committed to nurturing and training technologically-advanced individuals who can improve lives in the community and beyond, while producing globally competitive professionals who lead with both competence and character.

This milestone strongly resonates with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, which emphasizes access to inclusive, equitable, and quality learning opportunities, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, which calls for providing capable learners with pathways to pursue top-tier education regardless of social or economic barriers. By supporting Candel and other scholars like her, HCCCI affirms its role in advancing these global educational goals and making them a reality for its students.

While Candel’s recognition as a Real Excellence Scholar is already a remarkable accomplishment, her journey continues. As she prepares to undergo the REO UPCAT Review and looks ahead to the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) after completing her Grade 12 studies, HCCCI extends its full support and encouragement. Her determination and preparation serve as a reminder that true success is earned through hard work, perseverance, and the collective guidance of a supportive community.

The entire HCCCI family—administrators, faculty, classmates, and fellow learners—joins in congratulating Candel and wishing her the very best as she embraces this new academic challenge. With confidence in her abilities and in the formation she has received, HCCCI looks forward to seeing her shine not only in the UPCAT but also in her future endeavors, where she can embody the heart, soul, and excellence of a true HCCCI learner.

As HCCCI continues to uphold its commitment to values-driven and globally attuned education, Candel’s story stands as an inspiration to her peers, a reflection of the school’s dedication to excellence, and a testament to what can be achieved when talent, perseverance, and institutional support come together.

Her achievement is expected to inspire fellow STEM learners to dream bigger, work harder, and embrace every opportunity that comes their way. For the HCCCI community, this moment serves as a reminder that the institution is not only shaping futures but also building a legacy of competence, integrity, and service.

Congratulations, Ma. Alexandria C. Candel, on being recognized as a Real Excellence Scholar. HCCCI celebrates this milestone and looks forward to the many doors this opportunity will open. May her journey to the UPCAT and beyond bring pride, joy, and lasting impact to her family, her school, and the greater community.