Pru Life UK, in partnership with the British Embassy Manila, is co-funding two Filipino Chevening scholars this year, to add to its pool of six scholar alumni since it started supporting the Chevening Scholarship Programme in 2018. Chevening, a UK government initiative, aims to develop global leaders and has a strong history of supporting Filipino scholars in pursuing studies in the UK.

In a world increasingly defined by conflict and environmental degradation, Filipino Chevening scholars, Jennivabe Allan and Ana Lourdes Cosme are leveraging their unique experiences to drive meaningful change.

Jennivabe Allan: Countering Violence in Mindanao

Jennivabe Allan’s journey began in Basilan Province, Mindanao, where the scars of conflict shaped her early years. Witnessing the devastating impact of violence, Jennivabe dedicated her life to promoting peace and counter-terrorism efforts. As a police officer and educator, she led the “Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism” (PCVE) education campaign across several provinces, influencing over 2,000 individuals to stand against terrorism and advocate for peace.

Jennivabe’s work in integrating former rebels into the Philippine National Police through a specialised training programme under the Bangsamoro Organic Law highlights her commitment to unity and reconciliation. Her leadership is rooted in the belief that education and collaboration are vital tools in preventing terrorism and fostering lasting peace.

With advanced education in the United Kingdom, Jennivabe aims to return to the Philippines better equipped to develop and implement peace-building strategies, ultimately contributing to a more stable and secure nation.

Ana Lourdes Cosme: Defending the Oceans

For Ana Lourdes Cosme, the fight for justice is fought on the seas. As a maritime and environmental law expert, Ana has committed her career to preserving the Philippines’ marine ecosystems. Her leadership roles at the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea (UP IMLOS) have seen her spearhead initiatives to protect Philippine waters from the destructive impacts of illegal fishing, pollution, and climate change.

Ana’s advocacy extends beyond the courtroom; she educates fisherfolk on legal remedies, mentors future environmental lawyers, and advises policymakers on crucial environmental issues. Her goal is to strengthen the legal frameworks that protect the Philippines’ rich marine biodiversity, ensuring a sustainable future for the nation’s waters.

With a Chevening scholarship, Ana aims to enhance her expertise in ocean governance and environmental law, ultimately empowering the Philippines to better protect its invaluable marine resources.

Jennivabe and Ana are two of the 21 scholars that make up the Philippines’ Chevening cohort for 2024.

“Supporting the Chevening Scholarship allows us to empower future leaders who are dedicated to building a more resilient and prosperous society, aligning with our mission of creating lasting impact in the Philippines,” says Pru Life UK Senior Vice President and Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer Atty. Paul Anthony Mandal.

Since 2018, Pru Life UK has partnered with the British Embassy Manila for the Chevening Scholarship Programme, which allows young Filipino professionals to take up a one-year Master’s degree programme in the UK.