For a teacher, there is no greater joy in the heart than witnessing a student’s struggles while they are still studying under your care, until they gradually achieve their dreams and become a full-fledged professional.
Teacher Melanie Figueroa from Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte was overjoyed after learning that one of the first recipients of her “Laptop para sa Pangarap” advocacy program, Chrisken Sumili, has become a licensed engineer after passing the Engineering Licensure Examination.
The aforementioned advocacy program was initiated by Teacher Melanie, who teaches Social Studies at Hinaplanon National High School, to help deserving students who cannot afford to sustain their online studies, especially during the pandemic. It is worth noting that during the pandemic, classes shifted to distance learning, and having gadgets like laptops was crucial for attending classes or completing requirements.
Thus, Teacher Melanie did everything she could to find funding to purchase laptops for underprivileged yet deserving students. Chrisken was one of those she selected back then.
Teacher Melanie closely followed Chrisken’s efforts to finish high school, enter college, and after several years, he has graduated! Most recently, he has become a licensed engineer after passing the Metallurgical Engineer Licensure Examinations.
“Wooww, Congratulations again Engr. Kriskeyn Sumili! Goodluck on your next endeavors. As they say, this is not the end but a start of a new beginning. God bless you ken,” it can be read in her congratulatory Facebook post for Engr. Chrisken.
“To Ma’am Melanie Reyes Figueroa, thank you ma’am sugod palang atong laptop era (To Ma’am Melanie Reyes Figueroa, thank you, ma’am, for the beginning of our laptop era),” he replied.
In an interview with the teacher, she expressed her happiness for Chrisken’s achievements, who is just one of the many she has helped in continuing her advocacy.
Teacher Melanie’s advocacy did not stop during the pandemic, as she continued to help students whom she knew were in need of assistance.
Congratulations, Engr. Chrisken and Teacher Melanie!
