Meet Emmanuel Ricalde — once a housekeeper, the heart of De La Salle‑College of Saint Benilde (DLS‑CSB), now a proud holder of a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Business Management, through the Blessed Arnould Study Assistance Program (BASAP) Grant.
At age 34, Emmanuel returned to school under the BASAP Grant, balancing work, family responsibilities, and his studies. Despite the long hours and demanding schedule, he remained committed to his education, drawing inspiration from his loved ones and his determination to achieve his goals.
His journey exemplifies the principles of social empowerment and opportunity, as the College provides fair access to education and supports lifelong learning for all members of its community. Through programs like BASAP, housekeepers and other staff members are given the chance to grow personally and professionally, transforming their roles and prospects in meaningful ways. His perseverance under challenging circumstances underscores the resilience and agency that drive individual and collective progress. Emmanuel’s story illustrates how personal ambition, institutional support, and inclusive opportunities can intersect to create lasting social impact, reflecting the College’s commitment to empowering its community.
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