“Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” This verse from Psalm 37:4 beautifully captures the story of a former learner in Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc.’s Alternative Learning Systems program. Cebuana Lhuillier, a leading financial services provider, has supported this educational initiative since 2013, believing in the importance of educating the youth to empower individuals and foster community development.
Kris Ian Indic Villamor’s journey exemplifies the power of determination and resilience. Growing up in Tolosa, Leyte, a small town with limited opportunities, Villamor faced many challenges. His family of ten struggled with poverty, but Villamor always believed that with determination, anything is possible.
In 2013, Super Typhoon Yolanda devastated Villamor town, but it also became a turning point for him. He realized the value of education and, despite not finishing high school traditionally, passed the Accreditation and Equivalency Test (A&E). In June 2014, Villamor boldly enrolled in Visayas State University-Tolosa to pursue a Bachelor of Elementary Education.
“I am grateful to those who support the ALS program, especially Cebuana Lhuillier through their foundation. Their support, from study materials to additional modules, has been invaluable. It’s easy to give up, but because of Cebuana Lhuillier, I found hope. Thank you to God and Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. for helping me realize I can overcome any challenge,” said Villamor.
College was tough for Villamor, but each challenge made him stronger. He faced setbacks, like failing the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) in September 2018, but used these experiences to push himself harder. By March 2019, his hard work paid off when he passed the LET, bringing immense joy to him and his family.
After graduating in October 2018, Villamor served as a Barangay Secretary for nearly three years. This demanding role was fulfilling and reinforced the importance of family and faith, especially during the pandemic.
In 2021, Villamor’s life took another turn when a colleague introduced him to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology. Against the odds, Villamor became a Jail Officer I. In this role, he dedicated himself to the safety, security, and rehabilitation of inmates, providing them with education and vocational training to prepare for a better future.
Villamor’s story shows that with faith, determination, and support, no challenge is too great. He is one of many success stories from Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc.’s support of the ALS Program, demonstrating that unwavering resolve can help us achieve our heart’s desires.
“In supporting the ALS program, we enable individuals to reach their potential and contribute to society. Education is not just about personal growth; it’s about empowerment and progress for future generations,” said Cebuana Lhuillier’s president and chief executive officer Jean Henri Lhuillier.
