From Farm to Topnotcher: Daughter of Ifugao vegetable farmer ranks 4th in Sept. 2025 Social Worker Exam

Raised by a farmer mother from Ifugao, Arlyn Duyapat Guay - now a Social Worker board topnotcher- proved that dreams can be bigger than financial constraints and that obstacles can become fuel to keep soaring.

Arlyn, who graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Cordillera Career Development College, ranked 4th in the September 2025 Social Worker Licensure Examination (SWLE).

Arlyn shared that she worked hard in school and aimed not only to pass but also to excel in the SWLE because she wanted to give back to her family—especially her vegetable farmer mother, who made countless sacrifices for her and her sibling.

“I am a farmer’s daughter,” underscored Arlyn during an interview with GURU Press Cordillera, saying, “and I have also experienced the hardships of working in the garden. Given my frail body, I could not do the heavy work, only the lighter ones. That is why I told myself vegetable farming is not for me. I knew I needed to finish my studies because I only had two options: to become a farmer or to be a professional.”

Fueled by this motivation, she studied late into the night and persevered through personal and financial struggles to maintain her full Tertiary Education Subsidy, which supported her college education. After graduation, she also earned a full scholarship review grant from the Carl E. Balita Review Center in La Trinidad.

Graduating as Magna Cum Laude was not the only fruit of her hard work. Her persistence ultimately led her to rank 4th in the September 2025 SWLE.

“I dream that one day, I will be the one to provide for my family. To make this dream a reality, I knew I had to take my studies seriously and give nothing less than my very best in everything I do,” she expressed.

Preparations for the Board Exam

Arlyn admitted she was inspired and determined to top the SWLE, thinking, “Libre lang naman ang mangarap.” With this mindset, she built on her strong foundation from college, while reviewing intensively at the review center. She shared that she often spent up to 10 hours a day going through her notes and review materials.

For her, the true key to success was pairing faith with action.

“We cannot simply pray and then sit still; we must also do our part and give our best. Ika nga, ‘Nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa.’ And I have witnessed how true that is. When we trust God with all our heart and also do our part with all our might, He rewards our efforts in ways far greater than we could ever imagine,” she said.

Arlyn also advised future board exam takers to find study methods that suit them and avoid unnecessary pressure.

“Do not be confused or pressured by what you see on social media. Focus on what you know and believe is helpful for you. Remember, we are all unique individuals, and our paths may be different. Be your own person,” she encouraged.