1. WHAT TO YOU IS THE MEANING OF COMMUNITY SERVICE?

Service to community is the reason for my being. It is something that I yearn for and pursue with creativity and passion.

Reared by parents who are both educators, early on in life, my siblings and I were made aware and responsive of other people’s needs. It was through this family-orientation that my calling to serve the community was formed and continuously evolved from. Even as a child I knew that the services I rendered, say as a choir member in church, a class officer or as a writer in school were worthy contributions, which help better the community.

It is when I attribute my acts towards a communal good that I feel a sense of purpose and reason for living.

2. HOW HAVE YOU RESPONDED TO THE CALL AND CHALLENGES OF NATION BUILDING?

Corruption had been stagnating our country. It was in high school that I came to understand corruption as a multifaceted evil: that it should not only be attributed to the dismal activities of many public officials. I wanted to do something about it.

I started with my self. I acknowledged that I was sowing seeds of corruption whenever I cheated or allowed others to cheat from me. Then came the desire to influence others to do as I did. Together we held tutorials to help each other prepare for exams; eventually many of our classmates joined us. This I applied even in college and every time someone heeds my advice and willingly joins our tutorial sessions, I knew we were fighting corruption. With my membership and leadership in various organizations I found myself empowered and empowering others, as well.

Writing is more than an enthusiasm; it too is an effective means of reinforcing social awareness and responsiveness. My having joined the student publication both in elementary and college wasn’t only an outlet for me to share and hone my craft but it was also an opportunity to invite others to understand the world in my perspective.

There is corruption when the youth isn’t provided with quality education, so that as Prime Minister of Cogito Politico of the Political Science Department and President of Pathways Project Namnama, the organization of the physically challenged students of Saint Mary’s, the first project we did was to put-up a trust fund that could be of great help to members whenever they experienced financial constraints. As part of the Provincial People with Disabilities, I have been actively helping out in searching for and dealing with benefactors so as to help provide the needs of our group.

During times of calamities, I help various organizations provide the essentials needed by our less fortunate brothers and sisters. I too participate in outreach programs and seminars which are meant to enhance various skills and to disseminate information on certain issues concerning the government and society. Advocacy has been a critical word for me. For with it, many good things have been achieved. I will not hesitate to go further as to help curb present wrongful activities in society. This will be my commitment towards nation building.

3. WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF EXCELLENCE AND BEING OUSTANDING IN TODAYS'S SOCIETY?

What I am right now isn’t solely attributable to positive events that came my way; for I have undergone some tumultuous experiences that brought out the worst in me during those times. These challenges may have temporarily blackened my heart and wounded relationships but they too were learning and humbling experiences.

Often we hear about negativities which tend to imbue in us hopelessness and fear. What I want to bear witness in today’s society especially for the Filipino youth, is the hope that is present in every rightful decision we make in life. Despite our past mistakes, it is our present choices that define us; it is our consequent actions that shall refine us.

4. HOW WERE YOU ABLE TO LEAD A BALANCED LIFE AS A STUDENT?

Nothing beats good intentions if one were to grow in a holistic sense. More than the eagerness for formal learning, I conceived of the university as a venue for me to meet new friends and where I could hopefully find my spot in the outside world, so to speak. Thankfully I have accomplished these and more. For it was in university where I fell in love and in despair; where I first experienced staying up until dawn with friends, surrounded by bottles of beer and laughter and tears to share; where I mastered the courage to be a leader and a caring servant; where I sworn to do my best so that I may fulfill my God-sent purpose and live by Him for the rest of my life.

5. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BE WHERE YOU ARE NOW? WHO WERE THE PEOPLE AND WHAT WERE THIER ROLES IN CONTRIBUTING TO THE VALUES AND PRINCIPLES YOU LIVE BY TODAY?

Descartes’ Cogito Ergo Sum is the fundamental principle which I adhere to. I believe that it is through the continuity of learning that I can best understand my self and my purpose on earth. Interaction with the society deepens this understanding and compels me to act in accordance with what I know.

I have always looked up to my brother, Kuya Eric who, together with the rest of my family, has always been there for me. He was an outstanding student himself, but more than this, his selflessness and strong sense of faith are the qualities which I emulate from him.

The late Senator Raul Roco is an embodiment of a true statesman. He overcame life’s challenges and rose to the call of leadership and service. He believed much on the invaluable contribution of the Filipino youth and fought for quality education for us. I take pride knowing that he is part of the TOSP tradition. I pray that his legacy shall remain in us and in the hearts of the next generations.

6.WHY DO YOU CONTINUE TO LIVE BY THE VALUES YOU BELIEVE IN? WHY ARE THESE VERY SIGNIFICANT TO YOUR LIFE VIS-A-VIS YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY?

I believe that true change starts from within. By adhering to values that are close to my heart I transcend my self and touch other people’s lives.

True change transforms actions and through our actions we rise above today’s challenges. By promoting quality education, honest leadership and sincere service, I know in my heart that I am helping transform society and enabling others to do the same.