Exemplary Men and Women

Aside from immediate family members, we get to know or meet people who would inspire us to dream big, to surpass challenges, and to heal the wounds of failures and frustrations. These people have become our inspiration.

Here is my list:

1. Allen Iverson

   Allen is an NBA player known for his charms in the hard court and arrogance off court. He’s misjudged. Despite this, he remained to be who he is. He is undaunted by what people think of him because he believes he knows himself better than anyone else does.

2. Miriam Defensor – Santiago

   This feisty Philippine senator has a lot of academic and public service achievements under her name. Her stellar academic performance and untainted public service track record paved the way for her political status in the country and even in history.

3. Dr. Milagros Ibe

   I used to know her as a judge in the defunct quiz show “Battle of the Brains”. I got to know her better when she became my professor in two courses in my post graduate at the University of the Philippines in Diliman. At her age, she still exudes passion for teaching and has unceasingly shared her philosophy on education. She instills in her students the love for values while learning or teaching math.

4. Roselle Ambubuyog

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   She may not be that familiar now but I could not forget this woman when she was featured on Philippine TV for having graduated summa cum laude from Ateneo de Manila University with a course in mathematics despite being visually impaired.

5. Jed Madela

   This world-class performer wowed the world with his singing prowess. He makes the Filipinos proud with his talent and attitude as well.

6. Alvin Patrimonio

   This soft – spoken Philippine basketball legend is my ultimate sports idol not only for his contribution to Philippine sports but also for his heart.

7. Manny Pacquiao

   This pugilist, despite the controversies, is discipline, determination, and boxing god personified. His way on top was made by the perfect blend of proper coaching and training, and innate ability. One more thing about him is he keeps on challenging himself.

We may differ in people we look up to but these people move us to reach a common goal— the fulfillment of our dreams.

For me, these people have influenced me to believe in what I’m capable of doing despite my limitations and maximize my strengths. Hopefully, I’ll make my loved ones proud.