From mountains to milestones, an Aeta from Pampanga is proving that indigenous voices can not only thrive but also help shape the future.

Rener Dela Cruz, 23, passed the 2024 Social Worker Licensure Exam after facing numerous challenges at his remote community where access to technology is limited.

“Nahirapan po kami sa technology, ‘yung cellphone at signal. Sa lugar po kasi namin, medyo mahina pa po ang signal... kaya pumupunta pa po kami sa mga mataas na lugar at umaakyat ng mga puno para makapag-online," Dela Cruz said.

Dela Cruz is one of four indigenous Aeta students who passed the 2024 exam, alongside Mylene Navarro, Margarita Nicole Sibal, and Enrique Saplala.

Their achievement marks a significant milestone for the Aeta community in Pampanga.

Fe Manarang, Acting Pampanga Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD) Officer, expressed pride in their success.

"Dahil indigenous people po sila, hindi po sila capable na makapag-aral [financially]. So, ito pong mga batang ito, nagsumikap po talaga na makapag-aral," Manarang said.

Dela Cruz's journey serves as a powerful inspiration to other indigenous youths, encouraging them to embrace their cultural heritage while competing with their peers from the lowlands.

"Nakatuwa po bilang IPs (indigenous peoples) na, isa lang po kami sa marami na nakikilala na yung mga IPs sa ating lugar na hindi lang kami puro bundok, hindi lang kami puro tanim, hindi puro hukay," Dela Cruz said.

"Natutuwa kami kasi natutupad namin na kaya din naming makipagsabay sa mga unat," Dela Cruz added.