University of Cebu grad is third in civil engineer board

CEBU, Philippines – A graduate of the University of Cebu has placed third in the recent Civil Engineering Licensure Examination.

Armando Tatoy Saraum, who graduated magna cum laude from UC last March scored a 95.6 percent rating.

Also sharing the same spot were Teofilo De Guzman Jr. of the University of Santo Tomas and Romeo Longalong of the University of the Philippines Diliman, both also with a rating of 95.6 percent.

They were among the 5,028 individuals nationwide who took the test. Only 2,040 passed the exams given by the Board of Civil Engineering in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi and Tacloban.

Engineer Nila Sabal, Dean of the College of Engineering of UC said that they are so happy and proud to have their student near the top.

"Armando is a very diligent student. Kugihan since first year niya. Siya ang contestant namo whenever there is a quiz bowl or contest," Sabal said.

Sabal said that Saraum has been a dean's lister since first year. He has been active both in academic and extra-curricular activities in their school. Saraum also participates in their tutorial program.

Sabal also describes Saraum as an approachable and helpful student.

In his Facebook account, Saraum thanked God and all the people who prayed for him especially his family, friends --and his special someone.

This year's board passers was led by Arvin Venzuela of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with a score of 96.5 percent, while Melito Andrew Daro III of the Sorsogon State College came in second place with 96.3 percent.

Fourth placers were Ershie Clemente of the Bulacan State University (BulSU), Joseph Ginatilan Jr. of the Eastern Visayas State University, John Francis Manila of Bicol University and Arvin Santiago of BulSU with a score of 94.9 percent.

Fifth placers were Rommel Baraquiel of the University of Rizal System in Morong and Russell Herno of the Sorsogon State College with 94.75 percent followed by John Paul De Pedro of UST, Rodson Dela Roca of PUP and Jeffrey Delos Santos of UST with 94.4 percent.

Seventh placers were Aaron Jonathan Alcantara and Rodora Cadiz of UST with 94.3 percent followed by Judy Anne Manalang of UST with 94.2 percent.

Raymond Cruz of Laguna State Polytechnic College and Ma. Brida Lea Diola of UP Diliman ranked ninth with 94.05 percent and Angelei Plaza of the Father Saturnino Urios University placed tenth with 93.85 percent.

According to the Professional Regulation Commission, the oathtaking ceremonies will be held on December 18 in Pasay City. (FREEMAN)