The topnotcher in the June 2022 Architecture Licensure Examination (ALE) said she was just an “average” student at a university in Iloilo.

Marianne Kaye Ofianga, an alumna of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), ranked first in ALE with a rating of 82.40 percent.

“I’m just an average person, with average capacity, and definitely not aiming for that ‘topnotcher’ title,” she said.

“I just want to pass the board exam and all I ever did was to give my best every single day,” Ofianga added

The 24-year-old native of La Paz, Iloilo City was surprised and still in disbelief that she topped the board exam.

“Hindi ko inaasahan na magiging Top 1 talaga,” she said.

“I did not graduate with flying colors. Sa totoo lang po maraming pa po diyan na mas magagaling kesa sa akin.”

According Ofianga, her success is all because of her faith in God and optimism.

“He washed my personal uncertainties and anxieties away during my five month-long review and told me to trust in Him for He is greater than my fears,” she said.

Her supportive parents, boyfriend, best friends, classmates, teachers, and friends also pushed her to work hard.

“Through them, I was able to gain confidence and trust in myself and my capabilities that I will make it and become a licensed architect this year! Thank you so much Lord!”

Ofianga hoped that her success story would inspire others, especially those who are still undergoing review for their board exams.

“I am a walking testament that there’s no such thing as impossible when it comes to our God,” she said.IMT