4Ps child graduates Magna Cum Laude, becomes a licensed teacher
Testimony of Zelina Belle Marie Bandiola
Licensed Professional Teacher
4Ps Beneficiary
VALLADOLID, Negros Occidental – Growing up in a small village of Brgy. Ayungon of this town, I knew life wouldn’t be easy, but I held onto a dream that would forever shape my path. I envisioned a future where I could make a difference in the lives of others, where education would be the key to unlocking a brighter tomorrow.
As a second child in a family struggling to make ends meet, we were fortunate to receive support from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). This financial assistance not only eased our burdens but also ignited a fire within me to strive for a better life.
Despite the challenges of poverty, I enrolled in La Carlota City College, pursuing my passion for teaching.
The pandemic presented its own set of hurdles, forcing us to navigate the complexities of online learning. The lack of reliable internet access and the constant need to adapt to new technologies posed significant obstacles. However, I remained determined, finding ways to overcome these challenges, including selling viands in our neighborhood to support my family and fund my education.
Through it all, my unwavering belief in my dreams kept me going. I poured my heart and soul into my studies, and my hard work paid off. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from La Carlota City College was a testament to my perseverance and the unwavering support of my family and God.
The journey to becoming a teacher has been filled with both joy and hardship, but it has taught me the importance of resilience, faith, and the power of education to transform lives. As I embark on this new chapter, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned and the unwavering belief that I can make a positive impact on the world.
The two months leading up to the board exam results were the longest of my life.
Every night, I tossed and turned, replaying every question in my mind. I couldn’t focus on anything else, constantly checking for updates online, my heart pounding with each refresh. Then, one morning, the email arrived. My hands trembled as I clicked on it. The words ‘Congratulations, you have passed!’ blurred before my eyes. I burst into tears, a wave of relief washing over me. Passing the board exam wasn’t just a personal victory; it was a step closer to realizing the vision I had held in my heart for so long. Looking back, I realize that perseverance and determination are not just words; they are the driving forces that can help us achieve our dreams.
This journey has taught me that with faith, hard work, and the support of those we love, anything is possible. (Submitted by Municipal Link, Vanessa Anne T. Fernandez, Valladolid MOO, Negros POO2)
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