The Pionero Scholarship is the Inday & Oming Deiparine Foundation’s first and core program. It provides full tuition support to talented, financially underserved high school students in Ozamiz City, Philippines — connecting them to one of the region’s strongest academic institutions so they can reach their potential regardless of their family’s economic situation.
The program name honors the spirit of being first — pioneering a path that wasn’t guaranteed, for students who have earned it.
Our Partner School
All Pionero scholars attend La Salle University Integrated School in Ozamiz City — a respected De La Salle-affiliated institution with a long history of academic formation in Misamis Occidental.
La Salle University Integrated School
Valconcha Street, Brgy. Aguada, Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, Philippines
Tuition is paid directly to the school on behalf of each scholar. No cash is distributed to students or families.
Who We Select
Each year, the foundation selects up to three scholars. Candidates are evaluated on four criteria:
- Academic standing — minimum 85% GPA in prior year
- Demonstrated talent — in any area: academics, music, visual arts, sports, STEM, leadership, vocational skills, or community service
- Financial need — household income, number of dependents, and overall family circumstances
- Character and community orientation — evidence of integrity, responsibility, and care for others
Talent is not limited to grades. A student with exceptional musical ability, athletic drive, or creative potential is as eligible as a top academic performer. The program exists because talent takes many forms — and all of it deserves a chance.
What the Scholarship Covers
Full tuition for the school year, paid directly to La Salle University Integrated School. The foundation does not give cash to students or families. All disbursements are made under a formal Memorandum of Agreement between the Inday & Oming Deiparine Foundation and the school.
Staying a Scholar: Renewal Through Grade 12
A Pionero scholarship is not a one-year gesture — it is a commitment through graduation. Scholars renew their award each year through a renewal process rather than a full re-application. Renewal is rigorous but not burdensome: it asks scholars to show continuity, not to compete for their place all over again.
To renew, each scholar submits their end-of-year report card as proof of academic progress, remains in good standing with the school, and provides a short update on their year — what they worked on, what was hard, and what comes next. The foundation reviews each renewal with the school before confirming the next year’s tuition commitment. Our current scholars are extending their awards into Grade 12 through this process, so support continues through senior high school graduation.
The Real Cost of a Year
The Philippines academic year begins in June. Annual tuition at La Salle University Integrated School (AY 2024–2025 reference rates):
- Grades 7–9: approximately ₱43,000–₱46,000 per year
- Grade 10: approximately ₱38,500 per year
- Grade 11: approximately ₱47,000–₱48,600 per year (strand-dependent)
- Grade 12: approximately ₱51,800–₱53,200 per year (strand-dependent)
At current exchange rates, that works out to approximately $700–$950 USD per scholar per year. A $1,000 donation fully funds one scholar’s entire school year.
Support a Scholar
Contributions to the Inday & Oming Deiparine Foundation (EIN 33-2418989) are tax-deductible under U.S. law.