Edwin Saway came from an impoverished Manobo family in Magpet. Because of poverty, he had tried several menial jobs when he was young, like working as a jeepney conductor. In 1998, he learned about MAFI’s scholarship, tried his luck, applied, and was accepted.
“I could still remember that my father was wearing worn-out slippers when he accompanied me to MAFI office for my scholarship application. His slippers were ripped when we entered its office,” he amusingly confided.
Edwin wanted to take up criminology but the only available scholarship when he applied was for refrigeration and airconditioning. “I decided to just grab it and enrolled at USM in 1999. MAFI practically redirected my life, even in the choice of my course. Looking back, I am profusely grateful to MAFI for all the support it had given me so I could finish my studies,” he remarked.
“MAFI has a significant impact on the lives of poor Lumad students, giving hope to many. Through its scholarship program, a number of scholars have already realized their dream to finish their studies, escape poverty, and improve their condition.
He admitted that he used to be timid and had a low self-esteem, owing to his poor background and ethnicity. Fortunately, MAFI’s personality development activities for its scholars had enhanced his character and boosted his morale, enabling him to build up his self-confidence and ability to relate with others.
“MAFI has a significant impact on the lives of poor Lumad students, giving hope to many. Through its scholarship program, a number of scholars have already realized their dream to finish their studies, escape poverty, and improve their condition. Certainly, my future would have been different if not for MAFI. Next to my parents, MAFI is undeniably an important part of my life. Because of it, I now have a stable job, can provide for my family, and can help my younger sibling finish his course in electronics,” he said.
Edwin now successfully works as an area supervisor of an aircon maintenance company in Mindanao. When time permits, he performs aircon and other maintenance work for the foundation.
Edwin M. Saway
Scholar 1997-2000
