A Son’s Tribute: 24-year-old iKalinga earns Top 8 Spot in 2026 Respiratory Therapist Licensure Exam

Vince Christen Mauvry Awing-Lasam Mabalot might have had plenty of reasons not to do well in the 2026 Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination, but he still chose to overcome obstacles and top the board exam to honor his mother.

Vince, a 24-year-old from Taga, Pinukpuk, was named Top 8 in the February 2026 Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination.

In an interview with GURU Press Cordillera, Vince admitted that he aimed to top the board exam, fueled by the high expectations of the people around him. While it was his goal to ace the licensure exam, he faced his fair share of challenges—so much so that they nearly caused him to stray from his aspiration.

During his review, the 24-year-old recounted struggling to focus after he and his girlfriend of six years broke up. He said the situation sometimes distracted him and occasionally triggered emotional outbursts. Apart from this, he was also burdened by concerns about his mother’s health.

According to Vince, his mother suffered a stroke on January 9, 2026, prompting him to travel to Tuguegarao from Manila to be with her. He sacrificed review sessions and study hours to spend time by his mother’s side.

“Fearing I might lose her, I immediately returned to Tuguegarao from Manila and stayed by her side for days – time I will never regret sacrificing from my review,” he recounted.

Vince added that his mother inspired him to strive harder in life, as he witnessed how she single-handedly raised him and his siblings. Her strength and determination, he said, further fueled his desire to succeed so he could provide for her.

Secret to topping the board exam

After completing his bachelor’s degree in July 2025, Vince spent quality time with his family to heal from the painful breakup before officially starting his board exam review in September. He shared that his study strategy was to understand concepts rather than simply memorize them. He also made sure to rest whenever he felt overwhelmed by his review materials.

When asked about the secret to topping the board exam, Vince emphasized the importance of “trusting the process,” even when it feels draining at first. He also advised not being afraid of failing mock exams, as this help identify weaknesses and further develop strengths.

Additionally, he highlighted the importance of maintaining proper sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise.

Above all, the iKalinga topnotcher asserted that prayer played a huge role in his achievement.