By Kathrina Antonio and Crisdeniele Clemente

It is often said that when one finishes school, one's parents graduate as well. For Nana Wilma and Tata Dumarth Aguete, humble street vendors in Laoag City, July 10 marks their ultimate graduation. Their hard work and sacrifices have paid off, as all four of their children have graduated from Mariano Marcos State University. Janleigh, their youngest child, has earned a degree in teacher education.

Beginning their day at 2:30 in the morning, Nana Wilma diligently tends to her vegetables and snacks stall, while her Tata Dumarth, who previously worked as a tricycle driver, assists her in making ends meet. Despite the challenges, they persistently work until dusk to support their four children's education at Mariano Marcos State University because, for them, education is the best investment for their future.

Janleigh recalls how birthdays and graduations were quietly celebrated. Their family did not have enough means to enjoy such gatherings. Even in his pursuits, like chess competitions, simple snacks sufficed while peers indulged in more lavish options. Their modest means became the family's driving force to pursue college degrees.

"There were times when my children had to complete their assignments under a streetlamp because we couldn't afford to pay the electric bill for 2 years," recounted Mrs. Aguete, who had only finished high school. Despite financial hardships, they encouraged their children to finish their studies in college. With the help of Ilocos Norte First District Congressman Ferdinand Alexander Marcos’ Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery Transition (SMART) grant, they were able to fund their children's college education.

Now graduates of MMSU, their eldest, Jan Marth, is a licensed civil engineer; Jayrald is preparing for the Electrical Engineering licensure examinations, and Jayzelle, a marketing graduate, now helps expand their family business.

As Janleigh reflects on his educational journey, he recounts how challenges shaped his path. Initially enrolled in Computer Science, he realized that the program was not meant for him, which led to academic struggles. He later found greater fulfillment in teaching swimming at Bert Lozada Swim School. He diligently worked and financially supported his family even after leaving college, before the onset of the pandemic. "It wasn't my plan," he admitted, "but it helped me find clarity and focus."

When COVID-19 halted his work, he charted his own course and made the decision to re enroll in the Bachelor of Physical Education program. Not only did he start to excel academically, but he also experienced a sense of fulfillment in his chosen path. He was finally confident that he was on the right track.

Amidst a cohort of 3,110 graduating students, the Aguete family’s narrative stands as a testament to the enduring power of perseverance. Once besieged by poverty, their story now echoes across Laoag City, from the Sunken Garden of MMSU to Janleigh’s proud march as a college graduate. With the completion of the Aguete siblings' graduation portraits, tomorrow holds the promise of a brighter future for them.