Filipino scholar aspires to be a changemaker in Bangsamoro communities

Australia Awards scholar from the Philippines Rodolfo Matucan Jr is determined to change the narratives of Bangsamoro youth, women, and children.


Growing up in a conflict-affected area in North Cotabato in Mindanao, Rodolfo has been exposed to his province’s challenges, which, according to him, often overshadows the beauty of its people, culture, and history. He vows to be a changemaker in Bangsamoro communities and is grateful for Australia Awards for empowering him with world-class education to help him make a difference when he returns.


Rodolfo is currently pursuing Masters of Peace and Conflict studies at the University of Queensland to equip him in his peacebuilding and youth development work. He describes his Australia Awards journey as a responsibility:


“Getting a highly coveted scholarship is a remarkable turning point in my professional life. The Australia Awards Scholarship is a rare gift, and I intend to make the most of it. Every step and decision I make in this journey, I do it in the name of my genuine intention to give back when I return home, and that is the responsibility I carry with me every step of the way.”


Rodolfo is a Development Management Officer II at the Bangsamoro Youth Commission.