Dingdong Dantes’ scholar graduates first honor of her class
Dingdong Dantes received a meaningful birthday surprise after a student supported through a scholarship he helped provide graduated as the first honor of her class.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, Aug. 2, St. Joseph High School of Dagami’s Grand Alumni Homecoming recounted the journey of scholar Janine Nielo, who fulfilled a promise she made to Dantes two years ago after he helped shoulder her education.
In 2024, Janine was on the verge of missing her Grade 10 Moving Up Ceremony because her father who works as a farmer and her mother who is a household helper, could not fully pay her tuition.
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During the school’s 68th Grand Alumni Homecoming that year, Dantes, chairman of YesPinoy Foundation Inc. and a member of Batch ‘96, appeared in a recorded video message announcing that the batch’s newly launched scholarship program would support Janine.
“Kaya huwag ka nang umiyak, ha? Makakapag-Move Up ka na nang walang inaalala,” Dantes told the tearful student.
At the time, Janine promised the actor that she would finish her studies and make the most of the opportunity given to her.
Two years later, she kept that promise by graduating as the first honor of her class. In her valedictory address, Janine thanked Dantes and Batch ’96 for believing in her.
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“To Mr. Dingdong Dantes, your kindness has been a game changer for me,” said the student. “I’ll work hard, make a difference, and pay it forward.”
The school noted that Dantes’ generosity inspired more alumni, professionals, and overseas Filipino workers to contribute to the scholarship program, which eventually expanded to help more students instead of just one.
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“Two years ago, Dingdong gave Janine a chance. She did not waste it,” the post read. “On Dingdong’s birthday, Janine’s story reminds us that the most meaningful gifts are those that keep giving.”
In the comments section, Janine wished Dantes a happy birthday as she expressed that the actor gave her a glimmer of hope, and she continues to keep him and his family in her prayers.
Dantes celebrated his 46th birthday on Sunday. He is currently in California with his wife Marian Rivera and their two kids, Zia and Sixto, for the couple’s birthday celebration.
The actor took to Instagram on Monday, Aug. 3, to share that he went on a “rare movie date” with Rivera as they watched Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey in IMAX 70mm at the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood.
“Birthday wish granted,” read the post. “After months of nonstop work, this was exactly the breather I needed. Sharing this experience with her made it even more special.”
Rivera, on the other hand, will be celebrating her 42nd birthday on Aug. 12. /edv