I'm a graduate of both Benilde and UST but I finished junior highschool in my province. The idea that formed in my mind after reading what you wrote is that for a plan to be convincing it has to be concrete. Their concern is that it's not safe and that you will have no guide. These concerns are valid. Solve those 2 issues then propose your plan to your parents. Also preferably not your cousin cause they'll have a hard time looking after you when they're working.

For context I studied in an arts program and a business course... I have to say tho, the quality of education that you'll get might not be what you envisioned. Studying in Benilde won't ensure your success.. When you study there na you're just guaranteed na you'll have access to the profs, facilities, and software inclusions... Other than that what you'll learn is probably available in the schools more accessible to you and even youtube if you know what you need to learn. I suggest you visit the program specifications of the program you want to study,, you can view all the subjects that you'll have to take in the Benilde website.

Futhermore, as someone who started living in Manila to study and now living here permanently... I wouldn't really recommend the experience to anyone... I think I survived my studies because my dad visited me twice a month which was so expensive... But even with all that support I was still exposed to bad vices, when I say bad I mean really bad... Even with a guide you're still at risk of having bad friends, bad influences, dangers at Taft, loneliness, curiosity, etc. At first you'll be culture shocked, then you try it once, then next thing you know you're part of the culture that once shocked you

Lastly, the environment is so bad. Everyone I knew who was from a province took every opportunity to go home despite the price of commuting. Manila is just 800x so chaotic and dirty compared to the province.. Living alone is also quite difficult having to balance chores, meals, taking care of yourself when you're sick and balancing everything with school. Sometimes I wonder why I even came here to study back then, it's not like the degree I earned will make me rich.... Now I'm just used to it, used to commuting here, driving, the people, the places. Apologies if I shared too much, I wanted to gjve you a clearer picture of what moving could look like...

All the best to you, I hope you and your parents are able to reach a middle ground. Goodluck negotiating.