Against the backdrop of financial constraints that often derail aspirations, the extraordinary tale of Riel and Rica Gutierrez emerges as a beacon of resilience and unwavering determination.

These remarkable siblings have shattered barriers, soaring to academic excellence within the esteemed halls of Ateneo de Manila University, defying their modest beginnings.

Their remarkable journey stands as an inspiration, illuminating the power of familial support and the relentlessness pursuit of dreams.

Unyielding Determination

Riel, who graduated cum laude in 2019 with a degree in AB Psychology minor in Education, shares the family’s educational trajectory. His sister, Rica, also finished college with Latin honors this year with a degree in AB Management Economics with a minor in Korean Studies.

“My father joined Ateneo in the ’90s,” he recounts, in an interview with Inquirer, tracing their connection to the university.

Meanwhile, their mother, a former housewife, became a janitor at the Ateneo Residence Hall in 2011 and continues to serve diligently to this day.

Parents as Pillars of Support

Riel acknowledges their parents’ immense contributions to their education, extending beyond himself and Rica.

“Our parents were the backbone of our education, not just mine and Rica’s but also our younger twin brothers, Renzo and Rafael,” he proudly states.

Their parents’ dedication as employees of the university afforded the siblings a tuition fee discount.

Financial Hurdles

Riel emphasizes the challenges they faced while studying at Ateneo. “It’s difficult to study without resources,” he says candidly.

Beyond tuition and scholarships, there were additional financial requirements that needed funding, posing a significant hurdle for students lacking financial means.

Creative Solutions and Sacrifices

Undeterred by their circumstances, Riel and Rica found innovative ways to generate extra income for their education. Rica reveals that they took on part-time jobs, selling treats like iskrambol and siomai.

These small endeavors not only supported their parents but also provided them with pocket money for school.

Inspired by Parental Sacrifice

The unwavering dedication of their parents served as a profound motivation for both Riel and Rica.

Rica shares her desire to repay her parents’ sacrifices, stating, “I wanted to give them a comfortable life.”

She approached her studies with determination, aspiring to graduate from a prestigious university and achieve academic honors as a gesture of gratitude.

Celebrating Success

The Gutierrez siblings’ accomplishments brought immeasurable joy to their parents. “Our parents are not ambitious when it comes to achievements,” Riel reveals. “But when I graduated Cum Laude, and then Rica graduated Cum Laude, they were extremely happy. It’s indescribable.”

The inspiring journey of Riel and Rica Gutierrez serves as a powerful reminder that poverty should never be a hindrance to pursuing dreams.

Their story showcases the immeasurable impact of parental support, resilience, and determination. These siblings have proven that with unwavering dedication, hard work, and the belief in one’s abilities, dreams can be achieved regardless of one’s background.

Source: Inquirer