Working student and cultural performer dances his way to graduation

MANILA, Philippines – For Lenard Santos Mirandilla, earning a college degree was never simply about passing subjects or completing requirements. It was a battle against financial struggles, exhaustion, self-doubt—and the temptation to give up.

Photo courtesy: Lenard Mirandilla

A working student and cultural performer at Bulacan State University–Main Campus, the 25-year-old from City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, had to juggle academics with a job as a fast-food service crew member near his university.

With five siblings, a homemaker mother, and an auto-mechanic father, Mirandilla knew that his family’s resources were limited.

His daily allowance was not always enough, prompting him to find ways to support his own needs while pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Business Economics.

“Hindi rin madali ang magtrabaho habang ako po ay nag-aaral dahil hindi po ako nakakapag-focus sa mga talakayan, pagsusulit at thesis,” he shared, in an exclusive interview with The Summit Express.

But rather than choosing between work and education, Mirandilla found another path: dance.

He became a cultural performer and joined BulSU-Lahing Kayumanggi Dance Troupe, where his talent eventually opened opportunities for scholarships and competitions.

His achievements include championships in the CAASUC folk dance competitions and performances in major cultural events such as Indak Pilipinas, PASINAYA, and NCCA Sayaw Pinoy.

One of his proudest moments came in 2025, when he was selected to represent the Philippines at the Thailand Cultural Exchange Festival in Surin, Thailand.

Behind the applause, however, was a student who still had to return to work and face another shift.

His journey was fueled by the people who believed in him and by a simple reminder from his mentor, Sir Mark Joy De Jesus.

“Hangga’t may isang naniniwala sa atin, pipiliin nating magpatuloy, lumaban at huwag sumuko.”

For Mirandilla, the years of sacrifice were worth it.

Now a graduate of BSBA majoring in Business Economics and a PUGAY Awardee and Special Award recipient, he looks back at the journey with gratitude.

From asking customers, “Can I take your order?,”to performing before audiences, his story proves that humble beginnings do not determine where a person can go.

“Sa larangan ng hamon ng buhay, talo ang mga taong sumusuko sa kanilang laban,” he said.

Congratulations, Lenard!

— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express