An Ilonggo board passer shared his journey from being a seaman who earns a high salary to a doctor — his childhood dream.

Vincent Eldion Sumagaysay Javellana was among the examinees who passed the October 2024 Physicians Licensure Examination (PLE).

In his Facebook post, Javellana said that it was in 2018 when he decided quit his seafaring career and pursue medicine.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in marine transportation from the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific.

“Yes, I am a seaman. And when someone asks why I left the seafaring career, I jokingly answer, ‘Nadakuan ko abi sang sweldo didto. Diri lang ta sa gamay,'” said Javellana.

He took the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT), a requirement for those who are seeking admission to any medical school in the country.

“[It was] a gamble for me as a seafarer without a solid background in Biology and Chemistry. Even so, I risked it all,” said Javellana.

After passing the test, he enrolled in the WVSU College of Medicine and graduated last year.

Javellana thanked his parents, Vince and Lourdes, as well as his sister, Lourvi Princess, for their support, love and patience.

“I owe everything to my family. I love you all, and thank you. May doctor na sa pamilya ta!” he said.

“To my mentors, colleagues, friends, and relatives, thank you for believing in me,” he added.

The results of the October 2024 PLE was released by  the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last Saturday, Oct. 19.IMT