In an inspiring story of resilience and determination, 26-year-old Jorenz Obiedo has graduated from the University of Caloocan City College of Law as the valedictorian of his batch. Despite numerous challenges, Jorenz’s journey from a street vendor and porter to a law school graduate highlights the power of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams.
Early Beginnings
Jorenz Obiedo’s journey began in humble circumstances. His father worked as a construction worker, and his mother was a housewife. Jorenz is one of 12 children, and the family’s financial struggles were a constant challenge. From a young age, Jorenz took on various jobs to support his education and help his family.
“’Yung tatay ko po sinama 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,” Jorenz recalled. (My father brought me along to sell dirty ice cream. That was my first job. The styro box I carried was heavier than I was.)
Working Through Challenges
Throughout his childhood and teenage years, Jorenz juggled multiple jobs to make ends meet. He worked as a dishwasher at a local eatery, a porter for soft drinks, and a helper at a hardware store. He also assisted his father in construction work while he was in college. Despite the grueling work and lack of resources, Jorenz remained steadfast in his commitment to his education.
“Nag-dishwasher po ako ng lugawan tapos nagkargador din po ng softdrinks. Naging boy din po ako or helper ng hardware store, suma-sideline po ako sa papa ko nung college ‘yung nagko-construction,” he added. (I worked as a dishwasher at a lugawan, a porter for soft drinks, a helper at a hardware store, and assisted my father in construction while in college.)
Overcoming Adversity
There were times when Jorenz returned home with no allowance or food. Yet, he continued to push forward, motivated by a desire to break the cycle of poverty that had affected his family.
“Ayokong maging part ‘yung buhay ko ng cycle ng poverty. Ayoko rin po maranasan po nung magiging anak ko ‘yung naranasan ko po,” Jorenz explained. (I didn’t want my life to be part of the cycle of poverty. I also didn’t want my future children to experience what I went through.)
Academic Achievements
Jorenz’s hard work paid off when he graduated from law school, not just as a student, but as the valedictorian of his batch. Throughout his time in law school, he worked as a stenographer to support himself and his studies. His dedication and perseverance earned him the highest academic honor in his class.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Jorenz hopes to work at a public attorney’s office. His goal is to provide legal assistance to those who, like him, lack the means to access justice.
“Gusto ko rin po makatulong sa ibang tao. Mga kagaya ko po na wala pong means na maka-access sa justice,” he said. (I also want to help other people like me who do not have the means to access justice.)
Conclusion
Jorenz Obiedo’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. From selling ice cream and working various jobs to graduating as valedictorian from law school, Jorenz’s journey demonstrates that with determination, hard work, and resilience, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting challenges. His commitment to helping others and breaking the cycle of poverty is an inspiration to all.