It was one of the biggest things I’ve ever tried to overcome — taking the board examination. Knowing the hardships, I doubted myself, yet I still pursued it. Why not?
I honestly didn’t plan on taking the exam because I was scared of failure. So many “what ifs.” It felt too troublesome, and it would cost me and my family a lot of energy and money.
Luckily, I had supportive people who always had my back.
After graduating, I got my first job at a store near our place. I started in July and sadly had to end it in October to focus on my review journey, because the branch was too far. The owner offered me a part-time opportunity if I had no reviews, but I declined. I’m not good at time management, so I knew it wouldn’t work.
At first, I was thinking of skipping review centers because they cost a lot. But my parents convinced me that it would be helpful. I really didn’t like spending that much money, but since I wouldn’t pay the full amount, I grabbed the option.
From Kabankalan -Bacolod review.
And with that, my review journey officially started last November 2025 in Kabankalan City. I chose the weekday sessions — Thursday and Friday, twice a week. The struggle was real: fare expenses, food allowance, and pocket money. But I kept going. I never let those struggles stop me from chasing what I wanted to achieve.
Thank God. We all passed. 100%
That routine continued for about 3 months. Studying at home, especially at night, was really not my forte. I got bored instantly and felt sleepy not long after opening a book. I even got low scores on my mock quizzes and pre-board. But that still didn’t stop me. Still, that feeling bothers me every day: “Will I pass at this rate?” The agony was real. But there’s no harm in trying, right?
It was a long journey — more reviews, sleepless nights, and most of all, early morning travel alone just to make it to the review center. I’d wake up at 3 AM to prepare and head out before 6 AM. It was still dark, and scary as it was, but it didn’t stop me from walking to my destination. The hardest part was waiting for a motorcycle or a jeep.
Our last-minute review was on March 13 in Bacolod City. We had one day for rest, so we decided to travel on March 13 in the afternoon. That way, we could rest on the 14th and check our designated room. Less panic, less stress. But the rush travel was super exhausting.
I felt calm before the exam but too haggard after. Lol.
On March 15, 2026, I took the exam with my closest friends and batchmates in Dumaguete City. I felt very calm during that time. I got a lot of help from my aunt, who was working at the inn we booked. I was so happy to receive a 40% discount.
So many things happened after that exam. I got busy. I thought the examination results would be on May 15. I deactivated my FB account on May 11 so I’d be less pressured by the posts I saw online.
May 12, 2026, was an ordinary day for me. Nothing new happened, nothing I was expecting.
One of my friends messaged me, “Pasar cutie! Where to celebrate?”
I replied, “Not yet, let the results come out first.”
After a couple of hours, she messaged me again, congratulating me and saying I passed.
And I was like, “Is that really sure? Because I’m still doubting. I thought the results would be out on the 15th.”
She sent pictures and all, but I still couldn’t process it. I couldn’t feel anything. No crying, not too much happiness either.
I waited for my parents to come home. When I told them, my mother cried a little. Funny how my father said he didn’t believe I’d pass, lol. Like it’s my fault for passing. HAHA He wasn’t convinced yet, so I showed him my name.
Tadaaaaaa! I passed!🥰
That’s when I finally felt satisfaction. I felt so happy seeing how happy and proud my parents are.
The people who were always there for me to cheer me up whenever things becomes unfixable.
To my Mama and Papa,
Thank you for believing that I can do it. I’m always grateful for all the help, for giving me anything I could ask for. Thank you for being so considerate and hardworking, supporting my needs even if it cost you struggles and 'utangs'.
To Auntie Belet, Auntie Ledya, and Uncle Nono,
Thank you for all the support. Your simple financial help truly mattered. That free stay at your place really helped lessen my burden. 'Arigatou gozaimasu!'
We all nailed the board exam. 6/6
To my dearest college friends — Mommy The, Marikyat, Laylay, Den-den, Aning, and Ekay —
Thank you so much for all the encouragement, and for not letting my bad traits taint your love for me. I’m grateful for having you. You were one of my reasons for not stopping.
To my siblings, high school friends, and rant buddies — Doi,
Thank you for the simple “Kaya mo na, kaya gani sang iban.” I appreciated every word.
And to Deloy,
Thank you for always reminding me of the small things in life.
To my doubtful but brave self, I thank you for not giving up, for staying calm despite all the struggles, and for not letting the gossip affect you.
Above all, thank You, Jesus, for sustaining me, for all the guidance and knowledge, and for hearing our prayers. You always have our backs. Amen.
Pure hardwork, perseverance, and God's will. Everything was paid off and worth it.
For now, I will enjoy the moment. Small steps will do. No rush.
Images are edited using my phone's collage.