Ma. Elizabeth D.

Macabuhay is a Grade 11- HUMSS (Humanities and Social Sciences) student

of St. Luke’s Academy, Inc.

She won first prize in essay writing during the 2019 International Essay Contest for Young
People. The contest is sponsored by the Goi Peace Foundation.

She will be receiving 25, 000 US dollars and a plaque of recognition during the awarding of
winners on November 25, 2019 at Tokyo, Japan.

The theme of this year’s said contest is “Youth as a Catalyst of Change”.

The second prize and third prize were given to Ishaian Muramur of India and Lee Song Ki of
South Korea.

“I am very overwhelmed because one of the Filipinos had achieved something that we can be
proud of. She is the pride of the Filipinos. Indeed, the youth is the hope of our fatherland.” –
President Rodrigo Duterte

“I really love her. I am very happy that I have her.” – Ethan Montenegro, Elizabeth’s boyfriend.

“It was her childhood dream to become a well-known writer someday and winning in this
international contest is a step in achieving that dream. I know that she can do it. I am very proud
of my daughter.” – Marilou D. Macbuhay, Elizabeth’s mother.

“I am happy because she won.” – Market vendor

“She is a very intelligent person. I know that she has great potentials in writing. Upon hearing
that she won, I am very glad because she give honor to our school, our province and of course,
our country.” – Dr. Ezperanza T. But, the principal