There’s a famous proverb, “Like father, like son.”

And while many parents would be happiest seeing their children following their footsteps, parents from Bohol adviced their son to do otherwise – and the son adhered.

Cadet Alan Jay Jumamoy, PMMA Valedictorian grows up in squatter area. He experienced studying relying on gas lamp, sometimes even struggling to afford gas.

PMMA Valedictorian Adhered to Father’s Advice Not to Emulate Them

Have you heard the old saying, “Kung ano ang puno, siya rin ang bunga?”

This proverb is often used to suggest that children inherit the traits, characteristics, or achievements of their parents, and in some cases, they may grow up to be role models themselves.

However, for Cadet Allan Jay Jumamoy from Bohol, who graduated as valedictorian from the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) in Zambales, he chose to follow his parents’ advice not to emulate them, as they were unable to finish their studies.

Allan, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering, was the valedictorian of the Class of 2023.

A Consistent Honor Student

In his valedictory speech, he shared how his mother reminded him not to follow in his father’s footsteps. His mother, a high school graduate, and his father, a security guard, believed that while there was nothing wrong with their achievements, Allan could aim for more.

Allan had always been an achiever. He graduated as valedictorian in elementary school and with honors in high school.

To help his parents with their expenses, he also worked as a tutor and took on other part-time jobs during school breaks. He also passed various scholarship exams from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), shipping companies, and different schools.

Growing Up in a Squatter’s Area

Growing up in a squatter’s area, Allan experienced studying without electricity, often relying on a “gasera” (gas lamp), and sometimes struggling to afford gas.

There were even times when he had to study outside his house under the streetlights because they couldn’t afford a lamp.

While many children may be driven by ambition or passion for their studies, Allan’s motivation was simply to rise above poverty.

Philippine President Personally Congratulates Him

So, when he graduated as valedictorian from PMMA, he was astonished to be personally congratulated by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

Cadets in the academy face many challenges, but Allan managed to overcome them, attributing much of his success to the support of his fellow cadets.

Congratulations, Cadet Allan Jay Jumamoy!