Visually-impaired 4Ps beneficiary graduates magna cum laude from BU

LEGAZPI CITY, Albay --- Clarence Nayve, a beneficiary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), has overcome blindness and economic challenges and graduated magna cum laude from Bicol University (BU) with a Bachelor of Arts in Literature degree.

Born with congenital glaucoma, Nayve gradually lost his vision, becoming completely blind by Grade 9. Despite these difficulties, he maintained an optimistic mindset and chose to persevere.

“Kung mayroong 1,000 reason para sumuko, mayroon tayong 1,001 na rason para magpatuloy (If there are 1,000 reasons to give up, we have 1,001 reasons to keep going),” he said.

In addition to the unwavering support from his family, friends, and alma mater, Nayve attributes his success to various government programs that have assisted him throughout his education.

He has been a beneficiary of the 4Ps program since Grade 5 and has received annual support as a person with a disability (PWD) from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, which continues until 2024.

These programs have helped him cover essential expenses, including school supplies, transportation, and accommodation.

He has also benefited from free tuition at Bicol University, a premier state university in the region.

“BU’s free education was of big help. It offers quality education without having to spend for the tuition fee. So the cash assistance I received was used for the transportation, boarding house rental and daily allowance,” he said.

Nayve faced day-to-day challenges, such as extensive reading, long walks, and writing tasks, but he adapted by using assistive technology.

He explained, “My cellphone has a speech output feature so that I can listen to the contents. I pay attention to the texts and readings through my phone.”

Nayve expressed that BU has fostered inclusivity and inspired him to pursue his goals.

“BU has been my second home. It has taught me to become a better individual with a vision for society,” he said.

BU Prof. Christopher Loteriña praised Nayve for his extraordinary determination.

“At a time when many students become frustrated over the slightest inconvenience, I have never once heard him complain about his circumstances or limitations. We are so proud that he not only completed the program but excelled in doing so.”

Nayve’s journey is a powerful reminder that with resilience, community support, and inclusive governance, even the most daunting barriers can be overcome. (Raiza Lucido contributed to this article/PIA5/Albay)