Jorenz Obiedo, a 26-year-old who juggled being a street vendor and porter, has graduated as the valedictorian from the University of Caloocan City College of Law. Obiedo’s early life was marked by significant hardships, supporting his studies through various menial jobs. His journey through education was fueled by a strong determination to break free from poverty.
“‘Yung tatay ko po sinama po ako na magbenta po nung dirty ice cream po. So ‘yun po ‘yung una kong trabaho. Mas mabigat pa po ‘yung dinadala ko na styro box kesa po sa bigat ko po,” Obiedo recalled in a 24 Oras report. Throughout his college years, he continued working in various roles, including as a dishwasher, porter, and hardware store helper.
Despite the financial struggles that often left him without allowance or food, Obiedo remained focused on his education, driven by a desire to change his life and the lives of his future children. “‘Ayokong maging part ‘yung buhay ko ng cycle ng poverty. Ayoko rin po maranasan po nung magiging anak ko ‘yung naranasan ko po,'” he stated.
Obiedo’s academic journey did not end with his undergraduate studies. While in law school, he worked as a stenographer, managing his responsibilities with his studies. His hard work paid off when he was named the valedictorian of his batch.