MANILA, Philippines – While most topnotchers follow strict schedules and conventional paths, Engr. Carlos Miguel F. Mariano, Top 1 of the April 2025 Civil Engineers Licensure Examination (CELE) proves that trusting your instincts, knowing your limits, and surrounding yourself with the right support system can also lead to the summit of success.
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| Photo courtesy: Carlos Miguel Mariano/Facebook |
Unlike others who dove into board review immediately after graduation, this topnotcher waited until September 2024, choosing rest over burnout after completing thesis requirements. With clarity and strategy, they enrolled in three review centers such as FALCON, EERC, and Review Innovations (RI), a bold choice others might find excessive, but for them, essential in building a strong foundation.
“I had no rigid daily schedule,” the topnotcher shared. “I reviewed based on instinct and used online learning to control my pace.”
Following each review center’s structure, they focused on solving practice problems before watching lecture videos—only when necessary. “Efficiency was key,” they said.
A significant turning point came with the introduction of a spaced repetition app that helped strengthen memorization, a personal weak spot.
From formulas to technical terms, they mastered the essentials over time, gradually building confidence through practice tests, past board questions, and CE Reference books.
Behind this feat was a solid support system. Study buddies Jules and Roulson made reviews lighter—and more fun—with friendly accountability.
Mentors from all review centers remained accessible, answering every question with patience.
The final push came a week before the exam, thanks to the Colico family who gave the topnotcher a place to refocus.
The exam itself was no smooth ride. After a shaky first day, doubts crept in—but a mental reset helped refocus on the second day.
“I didn’t expect to be Top 1,” he admitted. “I left it all to God.”
When results came out, it was disbelief, then joy. The journey—from San Gabriel I Elementary to PLM—had culminated in a long-awaited triumph.
“This is my revenge arc,” the topnotcher said. “I never won a math competition. But this? This was my moment.”
Congratulations, Engr. Carlos Mariano!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express