Posted on

In the quiet town of Mambajao, nestled in the picturesque Camiguin Province, a remarkable story of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education unfolds.

Rico Abugho Cabalo, a Senior High School Teacher II with the Department of Education’s Eulaliio U. Pabillore National High School in Bonbon, Sagay, Camiguin, shares his inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a guiding light for her family and community.

The Eulaliio U. Pabillore National High School at Bonbon, Sagay, Camiguin, becomes the second home of Rico Abugho Cabalo, a former 4Ps beneficiary who is now a Licensed Professional Teacher.

“Education remained my guiding light in all my life trials,” declares Cabalo, reflecting on education’s pivotal role in shaping his destiny.

Teaching the Grade 12-GAS Strand, his journey began with unwavering determination as she pursued a college degree in Biological Science to become a teacher.

Cabalo is close to his students, inside and outside the campus.

For Cabalo, graduating from college is not the end of his journey but rather the beginning of a path filled with challenges and triumphs.

After successfully passing the Board Exam for Teachers, she secured employment with the Department of Education, realizing her dream of making a difference in students’ lives.

While 4Ps has helped Rico achieve his dream, Rico now helps his students reach for their dreams.

Cabalo’s educational journey received an additional boost from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4P’s).

The Commission on Higher Education granted him a scholarship because he was a former 4Ps beneficiary. This support allowed him to focus entirely on her studies, breaking down financial barriers and enabling her to pursue her career aspirations.

Despite facing economic hardships, Caballo’s story intertwines with the narrative of the transformative power of determination and the support received through the 4P program.

Raised by a resilient family united by love and a shared dream for a brighter future, Cabalo’s mother, Leonila, despite facing challenges and a hearing impairment, became a source of inspiration.

“My mother displayed an indomitable spirit,” Cabalo proudly shares.

His mother worked as a house helper during the day. She would tirelessly fulfill her role as a parent in the evening, overcoming challenges and providing for the family’s well-being alone.

Cabalo detested hearing anyone call his mother deaf, emphasizing that her hearing condition never brought shame but rather filled him with pride.

The 4Ps program was a lifeline for Cabalo’s family during challenging times, providing support when needed. Enrolled in the program during his first year of high school, Cabalo and his family found a renewed sense of hope and stability through the assistance provided.

Cabalo’s story extends beyond his triumphs, and it is intricately connected with the dreams and aspirations of her family.

Today, he takes pride in that his younger sister is following in his footsteps, approaching the completion of her college education majoring in English.

Simultaneously, their youngest brother has embarked on his college journey, pursuing a degree in Electrical Technology.

As an educator, Cabalo continues to be a guiding light for her students, imparting academic knowledge and the invaluable lessons of perseverance, determination, and the transformative power of education.

His journey stands as a testament to the belief that with education as a guiding light, individuals can overcome challenges and inspire others to reach for their dreams.

==