Tarlac State University renewed its partnership for student scholarships with Yokohama Tire Philippines, Inc. (YTPI) through a memorandum of agreement signed last October 3, 2025 at the Yokohama Production Plant, Clark Freeport Zone.
For over a decade, YTPI, through TSU’s Scholarship and Financial Assistance Unit (SFAU), has assisted numerous students by providing a monthly stipend and book allowance every semester.
Academically outstanding scholars have been selected from the fields of mechanical, electronics and communication, and electrical engineering, applied mathematics, and other programs identified by the company.
In his message, YTPI President and CEO Mr. Atsushi Funayama stated that he wants students to be given the chance to use their knowledge and create meaningful change for their families and communities through the company's support.
“We believe these dreams are the true foundations of sustainability, because the future is not only built by technology but also (by) people,” he said.
Moreover, Mr. Funayama addressed the scholars to study hard and dream big.
“This scholarship is not just financial aid, but it is a sign of trust that we believe in you. Remember that your success is also the success of your community and our shared future. Let us continue to work together for education, for sustainability, and (a) brighter tomorrow,” he added.
TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco thanked the YTPI officials for their generosity and also advised the grantees to do well in their studies.
“This scholarship program is a manifestation – your (YTPI) expression of trust, confidence, and belief [in] the potential of our students. With your help, this will lighten their worries. They can concentrate more on their studies. I also heard that there is a big possibility that our scholars may be given the opportunity to be hired here if they perform well. Make good, mga scholars natin in TSU. Be one of the lucky employees of Yokohama Tire Philippines,” he said.
Since the company’s establishment in the Philippines in 1996, more than 25 TSU graduates have worked in YTPI.
Kyla Cassandra Follero, a fourth-year accountancy student, is one of the YTPI scholarship program grantees and is currently undergoing an internship at the manufacturing plant.
In an interview, she said that the allowances provided eased her worries and helped her buy the books needed for her courses. Additionally, she is happy that she can land a job at YTPI after her OJT.
“’Yung iba po kasing mga fresh grad, kailangan pa pong makipag-agawan ng work outside kasi madami pong fresh graduates. Sa amin po baliktad, ‘yung work na po namin ‘yung naghihintay po sa amin,” she said.
Meanwhile, James Banag, a first-year mechanical engineering student, is one of the new recipients of the scholarship program. He and his mother, Glory, are thankful and honored for this opportunity.
“Malaking tulong po siya sa aming finances lalo na po na hindi po kami wealthy. We are so thankful po na napili po kami ni Yokohama. Na-plan na po namin na iipunin ko po yung most of the allowance para po makabili ng laptop kasi po kailangan po namin just in case po mag-Auto Cad na po kami and wala po akong laptop,” he said.
AutoCAD is a drafting software for creating 2D and 3D designs and models widely used by architects, engineers, and other professionals in the construction industry.
YTPI officials present at the signing ceremony include Executive Vice President for Administration Division Mr. Masatsugu Nishimon, Vice President for Administration Division Ms. Angelina Casasola, Vice Presidents for Plant Operations Division Mr. Juanito Arona and Mr. Jose Cansino Jr., and Corporate Planning and Business Operations Department Manager Ms. Geraldine Bautista.
Accompanying Pres. Velasco from TSU are Presidential Assistant Dr. Brigido Corpuz and SFAU OIC Head Ms. Sarah T. Gonzales. (jlm-OPA)
Photo courtesy: Eduardo F. Laxamana Jr.
