Alias ‘Roxy’ finishes senior high school with flying colors from Asenso MisOcc Refuge

OROQUIETA CITY— Despite facing challenging circumstances, Roxy, a resident of the Asenso Misamis Occidental Refuge (AMOR), has completed her senior high school education at Oroquieta City with exceptional grades, consistently earning honors. Her journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of support and encouragement.

A New Beginning with a New Goal

Roxy's academic journey took a transformative turn when she arrived at the AMOR.

"Sa una, wala gyud ko’y goal basta lang maka eskwela ok na,” she recalls. “Pero pag-abot nako diri, pagkabalo namo nga pa-skwelahon mi ni Gov. Henry Oaminal, ako gyud gikuha ang opportunity to show everyone nga kaya nako, and I want them to be proud of me."

(Before, I didn't have any specific goals. As long as I could attend school, that was enough for me. But when I learned that Governor Henry Oaminal would support our education, I seized the opportunity to prove myself. I wanted to make everyone proud.)

The shift in her attitude and performance is remarkable. In her previous environment, Roxy felt constant pressure without recognition of her efforts.

"Sa una, pressured ang ila ginahatag sa akoa. Wala koy himuon ug dili ko magpataas ug grado kay i-pressure man gihapon ko ug dili gihapon nila makita akong effort," she shared.

(There was always pressure, but no matter how hard I tried, it seemed like my efforts were never enough)

Thriving Under Supportive Guidance

Now, at the AMOR, Roxy thrives under the supportive guidance of Governor Oaminal, GAD Focal Officer Lorelei U. Cagas, and the staff.

"Okay kaayo akong pag-eskwela, consistent honor. Happy kaayo ko kay si Gov ug Mam Lai proud sa akoa bisan gamay ra kaayo (nga kalampusan)," she emphasized.

(I'm doing very well in school, consistently earning honors. I'm so happy because both Governor and Mam Lai are proud of me, even for small achievements.)

The positive environment at the shelter has made a significant difference in Roxy's life.

"Bisan og wala na koy kaugalingong pamilya, aduna gihapon mga tawo diri nga nagsuporta ug nagdasig kanako. Kontento nako bahala og wala koy pamilya nga proud sa akoa, basta naa’y mga tawo nga proud sa akoa," she said.

(Even though I don't have my own family anymore, there are people here who support and challenge me. I'm content knowing that there are people who are proud of me, even if my own family isn't.)

Looking Ahead to a Bright Future

With her eyes set on the future, Roxy plans to pursue a degree in Political Science, with the goal of becoming a lawyer.

"Gusto ko mag law. Dako kaayo ko ug pasalamat nimo Gov kay gipa-eskwela mi nimo ug gi-supportahan mi nimo. Ako ra gyud ma promise sa imo Gov kay mohuman ko sa akong pag-eskwela para ma proud ka sa akong ma achieve puhon."

(I want to study law, and I am immensely grateful to Governor Oaminal for supporting my education. I promise to complete my studies and make you proud, Governor.)

The new environment and activities at the shelter have also played a crucial role in her well-being.

"Lipay sab ko sa among bag-ong pinuy-anan, lahi ra gyud sauna katong wala pa si gov kay matulog ra mi dayon mo mata, wala’y excitement. Karon pag-abot ni gov, daghan na mi ug mga activities nga mahimo, dayon mag-outing na sad mi. Plus, kani pa gyud nga bag-ong building nga gi-renovate nga para gyud sa amoa," she explained.

(Our new home is so different from before. Previously, we would just sleep and wake up without any excitement. Now, with Governor Oaminal, we have various activities and outings, and the newly renovated building feels like it's truly meant for us.)

A True Sense of Family

Despite the absence of her biological family, Roxy feels a genuine sense of belonging at the AMOR.

"Bisag wala koy kaugalingong pamilya, na feel gyud nako ang tinuod nga pamilya diri," she concluded.

(Even without my family, I truly feel that they are my real family here.)

Roxy’s story is a powerful reminder of how support, encouragement, and a positive environment can transform lives. Her achievements are a source of pride not only for her but for the entire community that stands behind her. (SN/PGMO)

An honor student known as Roxy shines bright from Asenso Misamis Occidental Refuge.