23-year-old from Pampanga becomes first-ever Aeta to pass the criminologist licensure exam

A 23-year-old man from San Fernando, Pampanga has become the first-ever Aeta to pass the Criminologist Licensure Examination.

According to Oscar Oida's report on "24 Oras Weekend," Saturday, Dexter Santos Valenton graduated from Central Luzon College of Science and Technology.

"Sobrang saya po nun sir, sa kabila ng paghihirap, naging worth it po ang lahat," he said when asked how he felt upon seeing his name on the list of passers.

Dexter had to face a lot of challenges to finish his studies, as he also has to help his parents with their work at the farm.

LIST: Complete list of passers, December 2022 criminologist licensure exam

Thanks to a scholarship from the local government, he eventually earned his criminology degree.

Asked why he wanted to be a police officer, Dexter said most members of his tribe were not able to get an education. They also do not know much about the law, so he wanted to be someone they can count on.

"Gusto mo may marating ka sa buhay para lahat ng paghihirap na dinadanas mo ngayon sir is malampasan mo then para sa future hindi mo na mararanasan 'yung ganung sitwasyon," he said.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News