Being poor is likened to being enclosed in a small box. Braving the limited resources and access to opportunities has been an every day challenge. Nevertheless, Maria Olivia Agapay has exceeded the boundaries because she has always believed that she has the ability to get her family out of the box for a better life.

“I did not feel like living in a box because I was taught to be contented with the life our family has. Although I wish I had the comfortable life like some of my peers have, this did not hinder me from exploring,” Teacher Olivia shared.

She is an extraordinary 4Ps beneficiary from Lingayen, Pangasinan who landed the Top Seven spot in the March 2023 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers in Secondary Level.

While cherishing her sweet success, Teacher Olivia cannot help but reminisce the past. “We admit that we barely had enough but my parents never failed to shower me with more than enough love, care, and moral support. Whenever I achieve something, the kind words from my parents and relatives are more precious than fancy rewards and grandiose celebrations,” Teacher Olivia emotionally narrated.

Against all odds, Teacher Olivia did not falter in constantly convincing her parents to send her to college. Good fate was finally in her favor as she was chosen to be a  recipient of Undergraduate Scholarship Program of the Department of Science and Technology offered at the Philippine Normal University-Manila. She enrolled Bachelor of Science in Education specializing in Biology. “I was thrilled that time because I was close to achieving my goals in life. I promised myself that I will be able to give back for the sacrifices of my parents and relatives who have always been behind me as I chase my dream profession. Now, I can see a brighter future ahead, I will make sure that everyone around me will also never feel like living inside a box. 4Ps inspired me to live outside the box, no limits and no boundaries,” Teacher Olivia said. (by: Mark Theodore Mamuyac, IPDO for LGUs with inputs by Jaesem Ryan A. Gaces, Information Officer II)