MANILA, Philippines – For Ainsly Rhyss G. Gapusan, earning a spot among the top performers in the June 2026 Physical Therapy Licensure Examination (PTLE) was not just a personal achievement; it was another step toward a lifelong dream of becoming a doctor.
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| Photo courtesy: Ainsly Rhyss G. Gapusan |
The 23-year-old graduate of Mariano Marcos State University ranked third in the PTLE with an average rating of 91.20%.
A cum laude graduate, Gapusan also received Academic Excellence, Clinical Proficiency, and Leadership awards during her clinical graduation in 2025.
Her journey to success, however, was far from easy.
Before entering college, Gapusan carefully searched for a pre-med program that matched her interests and career goals.
While the pandemic limited her options, she eventually pursued a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy, one of her top choices. What began as a practical step toward medicine soon became a profession she deeply appreciated.
Throughout college, she juggled multiple responsibilities. Aside from handling the demanding workload of a healthcare program, she served as president of her department’s student organization and vice president of their college student council.
As the eldest daughter in the family, she also carried responsibilities at home.
The pressure intensified during board exam season. As the top student in her class, expectations were high. At the same time, she was preparing for the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT), processing medical school applications, and even squeezing in a month-long vacation before beginning the next chapter of her academic journey.
Despite feeling overwhelmed at times, Gapusan relied on faith, discipline, and a strong support system.
When the board exam results were released, she was attending to medical school requirements. After learning that she had passed and ranked among the top examinees, she spent a quiet moment in prayer.
Today, Gapusan has officially begun her journey as a first-year medical student.
“I am proud to say that I have begun my MD journey and am now a year-level one medical student. Don’t get me wrong, I love the PT profession, and it was hard to say goodbye, but I needed to pursue my dream. Rest assured, I will continue to promote the recognition and appreciation that the PT profession deserves,” she explained during an exclusive interview with The Summit Express.
For aspiring board passers, her message is simple: keep trying, stay disciplined, trust the process, and remember that earning a license is only the beginning of serving others.
“Don’t forget that aside from doing this for yourself, your dreams, and your family, you are doing this for your future patients or clients or the people you will serve. Claiming your license is only the beginning of a bright and fulfilling future ahead of you. Have the right mindset, practice discipline, and establish a support system. Just try, it starts from there anyway,” she said.
Congratulations, Ainsly!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
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