Former Sorbetes Vendor & Kargador Graduates Achieved Dream of Becoming a Lawyer
A former sorbetes vendor and kargador has achieved his dream of becoming a lawyer, graduating as the valedictorian of his class.
A 26-year-old man named Jorenz Obiedo, one of 12 siblings, grew up in a family where his father worked as a construction worker and his mother was a housewife. From a young age, Jorenz helped his father sell ice cream.
“‘Yung tatay ko po isinama po ako na magbenta po nung dirty ice cream po. So ‘yun po ‘yung una kong trabaho. Mas mabigat pa po ‘yung dinadala ko na styro box kesa po sa bigat ko po,” Obiedo said.
The latter also worked as a dishwasher in a ‘lugawan’, a porter for soft drinks, and a helper in a hardware store. He often did side jobs with his father during his college years, working in construction.
Jorenz remembers days when they had no money for basic needs, which meant he went to school without an allowance and came home to an empty table. Despite these challenges, he chose to continue his education, unlike some of his siblings who had to stop studying.
“Ayokong maging part ‘yung buhay ko ng cycle ng poverty. Ayoko rin po maranasan po nung magiging anak ko ‘yung naranasan ko po,” he said.
While studying, Jorenz continued to work various jobs to support himself. He eventually enrolled in law school at the University of Caloocan City College of Law and worked as a stenographer to make ends meet.
Jorenz graduated from law school as the valedictorian of his class. He now plans to work at the Public Attorney’s Office after passing the Bar exam, aiming to become a full-fledged lawyer.
“Gusto ko rin po makatulong sa ibang tao. Mga kagaya ko po na wala pong means na maka-access sa justice,” he added.
In a similar story, meet Kenneth Clauna, janitress’ child who graduates as class valedictorian
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