Jhun Michael Garcia Aballa, a recipient of the Philippine-Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES) scholarship program, has graduated with a degree in B.S. Computer Engineering, with cum laude honors, from the Jose Rizal University in Manila, Philippines.

Belonging to the first batch of PACES scholars who are pursuing university studies in various state universities in the Philippines, Mr. Aballa is the first to graduate under its STEMS70 (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) scholarship program since its establishment in 2016. Mr. Aballa has been a consistent honor student from grade school until his graduation from the university. In college, he received a leadership award, won prizes in various academic competitions, and was active in the student council. He is the son of Alex Aballa, an overseas Filipino worker based in Saudi Arabia, and Paulina Garcia Aballa.

A STEMS70 scholarship provides each of the scholars with a monthly living allowance, tuition and school fees, and book, uniform, and transportation allowances. PACES is assisted in administering the scholarships in the Philippines by ANCOP (Answering the Cry of the Poor), an organization that provides programs and projects for the needy.