Former Aboitiz scholar John Eric Dagos has come a long way from his days as a struggling college student, rising through the ranks to become a UnionBank branch manager.
Investing in education and developing future leaders have long been part of the Aboitiz Group’s DNA. Through Aboitiz Foundation’s Future Leaders pillar, Aboitiz Group continues to provide scholarships and learning opportunities that help young Filipinos reach their potential and build better futures.
One testament to this commitment is John Eric Dagos, a truck driver’s son whose life changed after a simple Google search led him to an Aboitiz college scholarship, opening doors from being a struggling college student to becoming a UnionBank branch manager.
The eldest of three children, Eric grew up in a household where money was tight. Determined not to add to his parents’ financial burden, he worked as a student assistant and tutor while pursuing his education at Don Bosco College.
When financial difficulties threatened to derail his studies, Eric turned to Google in search of a scholarship. “The Aboitiz scholarship was the first result that came up. I applied, and fortunately, I got in,” he recalled.
With financial assistance and a monthly allowance from the Aboitiz scholarship program, Eric could finally focus on his studies. But the scholarship offered more than financial relief. It introduced him to the people, businesses, and opportunities that would eventually shape his career.
At the Aboitiz Future Leaders Business Summit in Cebu, Eric worked with fellow scholars on real-world business and sustainability challenges, guided by Aboitiz executives. An internship at Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) gave him firsthand experience in corporate operations and a glimpse of the professional world.
When Eric graduated at the top of his class in 2015, his exposure to the Aboitiz Group had already influenced what he wanted to do next. With a background in information technology, he pursued a career in UnionBank, starting as a junior branch ambassador handling over the counter transactions. He worked his way up the ranks, eventually becoming the branch manager of UnionBank’s branch along 32nd Street in Bonifacio Global City.
“Working at UnionBank is a dream come true. What makes it more meaningful is that the support and trust I received as an Aboitiz scholar are still there. The bank also has a culture that inspires you to grow and give your best,” he said.
Eric’s journey reflects the broader purpose of the Aboitiz Future Leaders Scholarship Program, which has supported more than 1,200 students since 2000. This year, nearly 300 scholars are part of the program, which combines financial assistance with leadership development, internships, mentoring, and opportunities for personal growth.
For Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Eric’s story reflects how access to education can transform lives and create opportunities for lasting impact.
“A scholarship is more than an investment in education. It is an investment in a future leader’s potential. When young people like Eric succeed, they are empowered to inspire others, nurture talent and make a lasting difference in the organizations they serve,” Hontiveros-Malvar said.
Drawing on his experience as an Aboitiz scholar, Eric is now paying it forward by mentoring his team at UnionBank, helping his colleagues develop their strengths and grow professionally.
“I’m part of the Aboitiz Group because someone believed in my potential from the time I was a scholar. Now I want to help others discover what they’re capable of and help them succeed,” he said.
