14/07/2025
๐ก๐ผ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ณ๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ฒ๐, ๐๐๐ ๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐
As the college journey comes to an end, many students at VSUV leave behind more than just memoriesโthey leave a legacy. Among the graduates of the Academic Year 2024โ2025 is one student who proved that success is not measured by one's limitations, but by oneโs strength to rise above them.
Growing up with clubfoot, pain was not a stranger to himโnot only physically but emotionally as well. He remembered how hard it was to go to school when he was young. He can't help but ask, "kaya bani nako?" The stares, the laughter, the whispersโthese were not just passing moments, they were daily reminders of how different he was. โThey were hurtful,โ he admitted, โbut I learned to accept na lang kay mao may gihatag sa Ginoo.โ Over time, he found strength in his friends who helped him gain confidence and see himself beyond his condition.
College life introduced a higher level of challenge. The physical fatigue from being in class, team activities, and activitiesโparticularly dance performancesโtook a toll on him. "Wala jud koy talent ana," he said, recognizing the challenge of coping in such physically taxing endeavors. Emotionally, the pressure to succeed while managing a disability was overwhelming. Socially, there were times when he felt like an outsider. But through these ordeals, he survived. "Laban gihapon, kay gi pa-eskwela ra," he stated. He attributes his resilience to the strong support mechanism he had. "My greatest support throughout college was my family, friends, and also sa nag pa eskwela nako [who] provided unwavering emotional support and practical assistance," he owed.
A turning point in his life was when he discovered that he was capable of so much more than othersโor even heโhad ever thought. It wasn't simply a matter of completing college; it was a matter of succeeding. He does not care anymore about the people who were laughing at his condition. "I do whatever I want," he proudly declared. Completing his degree in Agriculture wasn't simple, but it was a strong message: that individuals with disabilities are as capable as anybody else. His success at school destroyed the myth that his condition determined his value or potential.
He also thanked those teachers who empathized with him. From granting deadline extensions to providing alternative assignments when needed, their adjustments were crucial to his success. But it was the unconditional and emotional support of his family, especially his friends who embraced and celebrated his difference and success alongside him, that kept him grounded. "Their acceptance and encouragement were invaluable," he expressed.
Graduating from college was more than just receiving a diploma for himโit was a dream fulfilled, a promise kept, and a triumph over years of quiet struggle. As he walked across the stage in his toga, he carried not only his academic accomplishments but also the weight of every moment he almost gave up and every person who believed in him. That moment was not just a milestoneโit was a victory of spirit, faith, and resilience.
When asked what message he would like to give to others facing similar circumstances, he became reflective. โYour limitations are not your definition. Do whatever you want. Embrace your unique strengthsโkay mao may gihatag sa atoa sa Ginoo," he asserted. He encouraged others to seek support, surround themselves with people who believe in them, and remember that success is personal. "Believe in your ability to achieve more than you ever thought possible; your potential is limitless, [and] your [disability] is unique," he concluded.
Words by Vejemon Y. Cuna & Marlon Jr. S. Escoton
Layout by Joshua Pag-ong l Mindsprout
