UFO helps Kagman High student with $500 donation

The United Filipino Organization has chipped in $500 that will go toward the $5,000 that a Kagman High School sophomore needs to participate in the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in New York this summer.

Bong Malasarte, president of the umbrella organization of some 30 groups in the CNMI, presented UFO’s $500 donation to 15-year old Jace Pineda during the group’s Christmas party at the Chalan Kanoa Beach Hotel on Dec. 17.

Proud parents Elmer and Tess Pineda, along with youngest daughter Jessica, accompanied Jace Pineda during last month’s check presentation.

The second of three siblings born to Filipino parents, Jace Pineda was selected by NYFL to take part in its medicine program, which introduces outstanding high school students to the world of medicine, familiarizing students with the various professions available in the medical field.

Jace Pineda, who dreams of becoming a pediatrician, was chosen for her academic excellence, leadership potential, and interest in a career in medicine. She graduated salutatorian at Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School and valedictorian at Hopwood Jr. High School.

Malasarte said that Pineda sought their help to raise the over $5,000 she needs to pay for her round-trip ticket, tuition fee for the forum, and accommodations.

“She is an intelligent student and she deserves it. I know this forum would really help her get an even brighter future. I hope she continues to study hard so that next time, it will be her turn to help other deserving students who will be in a similar situation,” he said.

Jace Pineda said that UFO’s donation is a big help. “After their donation, I only need $500 to pay for my tuition,” she said.

Her family will supplement this by selling hot lunches on Jan. 28 and hosting a talent showdown for Kagman High School students at Garapan Central Park next month.

Elmer Pineda, a maintenance staff at Palms Resort, expressed appreciation for UFO’s donation. “I’m really proud of my daughter because I know she’s very dedicated in her studies. She has already set her mind [to] attending the forum so I would do everything I can to make [it happen] and not disappoint her. That’s a promise,” he told Saipan Tribune.

He said he plans to raise money for Jace’s pocket money and corporate attire by soliciting from various companies and organizations on island.

He said Tan Siu Lin Foundation also donated $500 to their cause last year.

Elmer Pineda disclosed that they have also asked for assistance from Education Commissioner Rita Sablan and Delegate Gregorio Kilili Sablan to sponsor Jace’s airfare. He said he will be informed about their decision by April.

To help Jace Pineda, call 287-5735.

The National Youth Leadership Forum was founded in 1992 and has empowered the nation’s highest-achieving high school and university students with the confidence to make well-informed life choices that will prepare them for bright academic futures and successful professional careers.