Kara David celebrates her scholar Ekang's college graduation

Kara David expressed pride in her scholar Ekang, who recently graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

The award-winning Kapuso journalist shared a photo collage on social media featuring two photos taken 19 years apart.

The first photo showed Kara carrying a then three-year-old Ekang while working on the documentary “Sa Mata ni Ekang” in 2007. The second photo showed Ekang during her college graduation.

“[Two] photos, 19 years apart,” Kara wrote.

Kara recalled how “Sa Mata ni Ekang” featured Ekang, who lived in the slums of Metro Manila and was orphaned at an early age.

She said Ekang’s mother was among those who fell victim to extrajudicial killing (EJK) in 2016.

Through her advocacy, Project Malasakit, Kara helped Ekang pursue her education.

“And here she is today — a graduate of BS Business Administration,” she said. “A testament to the power of our stories.”

“Congratulations my dear Lilian, always very proud of you. Mahal ka namin. I'm sure your mother is smiling down from heaven,” the journalist added.

In another Instagram post, Kara shared photos from their lunch celebration with Ekang’s family and friends.

According to Kara, Ekang’s father is now working and actively involved in their church, while her brother is currently in college. Her grandmother, meanwhile, is already retired.

“Happy to report that Elang/Lilian is now surrounded by a good environment. Salamat din sa kanyang bestfriend na si Mark at sa kanyang mabuting pamilya. Thank you for being a guiding light to her. Congratulations my dear Lily!” she wrote.

Ekang is one of Kara’s scholars under her Project Malasakit Program, which included Athena, the daughter of late Kapuso Journalist Cesar Apolinario, who is now working as an intern with GMA Public Affairs.

—Jade Veronique Yap/JCB, GMA News