MANILA, Philippines – As a child, Rico Quiñones Elao spent long days working in the fields to help his family survive, never imagining that he would one day become the topnotcher of the March 2026 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination (CELE).
The farmer's son from Alegria, Cebu, earned the highest rating nationwide at 94.10 percent, proving that determination can rise above even the toughest circumstances.
Rico grew up watching his parents, Teotimo and Florencia, work tirelessly to provide for their six children through farming despite constant financial struggles.
"I would take on farm work for the whole day with my cousin just to earn money so I could have something to bring to school for my allowance," Rico told the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), reflecting on the sacrifices he made to continue his education.
A major turning point came in 2010 when the Elao family became beneficiaries of the DSWD Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), which helped them meet their basic needs and keep the younger children in school.
The program eased the family's financial burden, allowing Rico to focus on his studies instead of worrying about school supplies and daily expenses.
His journey became even more difficult when he was hospitalized with severe dengue at 16, draining the family's limited resources and testing their resilience.
Even then, Rico refused to give up, drawing strength from his family and the opportunities that continued to come through the 4Ps program.
His older sister, Pia, also helped finance his college education while he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at Cebu Technological University Dumanjug Extension Campus.
"There were times when I wanted to give up, but what is the purpose of going to school if I will not finish it?" Rico said, recalling the question that kept him moving forward whenever doubt crept in.
His perseverance led him to graduate Magna Cum Laude in July 2025, win national academic competitions, and celebrate as his family graduated from the 4Ps program after achieving self-sufficiency.
When the March 2026 board examination results were released, Rico stood at the top of the national rankings, becoming living proof that family sacrifice, hard work, and meaningful support can change the course of a life.
SEE ALSO: March 2026 CELE topnotcher from Cebu to receive ₱200,000 cash incentive
"I humbly share this success with my family, whose sacrifices inspired me; my mentors, who guided me; and the 4Ps, which stood with me every step of the way," Rico said.
— The Summit Express"I hope my story serves as a reminder that with determination, hard work, and the right support, no dream is too far to reach, regardless of one's circumstances," Rico concluded.
Start the conversation. Share your thoughts, insights, or reactions, and connect with fellow readers.