12:35 PM – Negros Occidental
"Hello?"
"This is Adrian from the TG Foundation," he said. "I am looking for the parent or guardian of Mark Velasco."
"This is his uncle," the man said. "His parents are in Manila. Why are you calling?"
Adrian explained. He stated the program name, its connection to TG Holdings, the details of Timothy's public announcement, the coverage of the scholarship.
The uncle stayed quiet.
"Sir?" Adrian said.
"You are saying my nephew got a free education," the man replied. "No repayments? No work contract?"
"No repayment," Adrian said. "The only requirement is that he study, maintain his grades, and follow the rules. The foundation handles the rest."
He heard a rough exhale.
"I do not know if he can handle engineering," the uncle said. "We are simple people. Big schools might swallow him."
Adrian looked at the notes on Mark's file. High aptitude scores. Good recommendation. Rural school, few resources.
