MANILA, Philippines – For Aldrei Diric Edu, success in the June 2026 Physical Therapist Licensure Examination (PTLE) was the result of years of discipline, sacrifice, and a commitment to continuous self-improvement.
He landed Top 2, garnering a rating of 91.55%.
In an exclusive interview with The Summit Express, the 23-year-old graduate of Mariano Marcos State University from Bangui, Ilocos Norte said that he initially chose the Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSPT) program because of his passion for fitness and exercise.
Wanting to connect his interest in physical wellness with healthcare, he found Physical Therapy to be the perfect fit.
While it was not his childhood dream, he eventually realized before graduating high school that the profession aligned with both his interests and long-term goals.
Passion for Fitness Led to Physical Therapy
Like many Physical Therapy students, Edu faced the challenge of managing an academically demanding course.
The program required countless hours of studying and significant personal sacrifices to meet academic and clinical requirements. Despite the workload, he remained focused on his goal and embraced the rigorous training needed to succeed.
A Holistic Approach to Board Exam Preparation
When preparing for the board examination, Edu adopted a holistic and evidence-based approach.
Rather than focusing solely on reading and memorization, he redesigned his entire routine. He paid close attention to his health, incorporated effective study strategies, and practiced habits aimed at improving memory, cognition, and overall performance.
One of the biggest obstacles during review season was resisting the temptation to rest excessively or indulge in distractions.
Repeatedly reviewing the same materials often led to burnout, but he pushed through by staying disciplined and consistent.
The Moment Years of Hard Work Paid Off
When the examination results were released, Edu was overwhelmed with joy. After years of imagining the moment, he finally achieved the goal he had worked so hard for.
"Well super saya at nagsisisigaw lang talaga ako and super overwhelmed kasi dati ko nang iniimagine 'to," he said.
A Future in Healthcare and Education
Looking ahead, he hopes to build a career that combines clinical practice and teaching, allowing him to serve as both a healthcare professional and educator.
For aspiring board passers, Edu offers simple advice: maximize every opportunity, stay consistent, trust the process, and never forget the importance of faith, discipline, and rest.
“Make sure that you are prepared, make use of everything, maximize it, be creative, every second matter so don't waste it but don't forget also that rest is super kailangan.
Be consistent, be disciplined and have faith sa mga sarili. Don't forget na hindi kayo nag-iisa kaya magtiwala kay Lord, surrender yung sarili sa Kanya.”
Congratulations, Aldrei!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
Start the conversation. Share your thoughts, insights, or reactions, and connect with fellow readers.