The UP Cwm Zenana (UPCZ), founded on January 17, 1980 by 17 Bachelor of Science in Geology female students of the University of the Philippines was established to respond to a growing need for support and recognition for female students enrolled in the programme.  With the tireless work of resident members and officers as well as the commitment and  support of its alumnae, the organization has grown to its current number of 15 resident members and 217 alumnae, several of whom are now residing and/or employed internationally in various roles in different locations around the world and recognized in many different knowledge and professional practice in both industry and government. 

On the 4th January 2020, UPCZ celebrated its 40th anniversary attended by over 60 members, residents and alumnae from far and wide. In this event, the proposal to offer scholarship assistance to deserving female geology students was conceived with overwhelming support by alumnae and residents alike. 

This document serves as the guideline for the implementation of the scholarship program including criteria for selection of candidates, governance, terms of the scholarship, requirements, programme monitoring, and evaluation. 

The program's strategic objective is to support national development through science, particularly in the field of geological sciences.  This programme hence to be known as CWM ZENA’NA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (CZSP) embodies the vision of the organization from 40 years and beyond, to support women in the field of geology to succeed in the pursuit of their chosen careers.

This research travel grant is established to honor the unwavering dedication and contributions of Dr. Rosana Balangue-Tarriela. As a revered faculty member of the National Institute of Geological Sciences, a dedicated research laboratory adviser, and a founding member and past adviser of Cwm Zena’na, Dr. Tarriela has been a guiding light and inspiration for many aspiring geology students.

This program aims to empower female graduate students in geology by providing them the opportunity to attend prestigious conferences and research events abroad. Through this grant, we seek to foster their academic and professional growth, enabling them to contribute significantly to the field of geosciences.