MANILA, Philippines – Behind every diploma is a story of sacrifice. For Andriana Joy F. Nepacina, that story began with a cart full of cotton candy.
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| Photo courtesy: Andriana Joy F. Nepacina (Facebook) |
The Bachelor of Science in Legal Management graduate and Ateneo College Scholarship Awardee from Ateneo de Manila University Class of 2026 recently touched thousands of hearts after dedicating her graduation to her father, Amorlito "Kuya Amor" Nepacina, a cotton candy vendor who spent more than two decades working tirelessly to support their family.
In a heartfelt Father's Day tribute, Andriana described how her father braved the scorching heat and heavy rains, selling cotton candy on the streets of Antipolo without ever complaining about life's hardships. Every bag of cotton candy, she said, represented another step toward putting food on the table, funding her education, and keeping her dreams alive.
In an exclusive interview with The Summit Express, Andriana revealed that her father's cotton candy business started even before she was born, using money from her mother's maternity leave benefits to build the family's first pushcart.
Her father also worked as a school janitor for nearly 25 years before becoming a full-time street vendor after losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As an only child, Andriana considered herself her parents' greatest hope. Despite financial struggles, she refused to give up on her dream of studying at Ateneo, a university she had admired since high school.
During the pandemic, her family even saved just to pay the ₱600 application fee. That leap of faith eventually led to a financial aid scholarship that changed her life.
Although she has now earned her degree, Andriana says her journey is far from over. She plans to work first, save money, and eventually pursue law school.
Her message to students facing similar struggles is simple: "Do it scared. Do it with doubt. Poverty is never a barrier for those who are hardworking, determined, and willing to dream."
Congratulations, Andriana!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
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