CEBU, Philippines - Dovann Arrabis, 22, of Daanbantayan town once thought that being congratulated through huge banners was nothing but a dream.
Arrabis said seeing the faces of successful schoolmates and friends on tarpaulins placed in conspicuous places would only make him want to be an inspiration to others more.
His dream remained a dream until the fateful day of May 7, 2014 when the Professional Regulation Commission announced the passers of the Civil Engineer Licensure Examination.
Arrabis, a graduate of Cebu Technological University, bagged the 10th place of the board exam with an average score of 93.05 percent.
“Nindot kaayo ang feeling, proud kaayo ko sa kaugalingon. Daghan na nga motagad nimo. Ang respect pod sa isig ka tawo,” he told reporters.
Arrabis was among the successful graduates under the Cebu Tertiary Educational Assistance Program of the Capitol who received commendations yesterday from the officials of the provincial government.
Cash incentives of P5,000 were given to each of 42 Capitol scholars who graduated last year. Each of the 29 who graduated with honors also received cash rewards that varied depending on the honors conferred: P30,000 for Summa Cum Laude, P20,000 for Magna Cum Laude, and P10,000 for Cum Laude.
Another 74 scholars who passed the board exams were also given cash incentives of P10,000 each. Arrabis, being in the 10th spot, received P20,000.
Governor Hilario Davide III, Vice Governor Agnes Magpale and Board Member Peter Calderon, Chairman of the Provincial Board Committee on Education, spearheaded the appreciation program yesterday.
Arrabis said it was hard work and determination that helped him succeed. He recounted that his focus in schooling was temporarily diverted to his family following the onslaught of super typhoon Yolanda a year ago. Their house was among those destroyed by the destructive typhoon.
“Nagbuhat lang mi og payag-payag,” he said.
With what he has received he added that now he can help his parents and invest in his future.
Arrabis is now working in the Department of Social Welfare and Development as a technical empowerment facilitator. — Michael Vencynth H. Braga/BRP (FREEMAN)