TOP 1 in 2025 Dental Hygienists Licensure Exam is from Kiangan, Ifugao

Ifugao, Philippines – Carl Cholo Ayahao Melicor of Kiangan, Ifugao, brought honor and prestige to his hometown after securing the top spot in Dental Hygienists Computer-Based Licensure Examination held May 29 and 30, 2025.

Carl garnered 84.85%, the highest among 61 who successfully hurdled the examination out of 73 takers, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced.

Calling inspired by family

The nation’s Top 1 passer told GURU Press Cordillera that his family inspired him to pursue a career in the medical field. He grew up surrounded by healthcare professionals with his uncle being a doctor, while both his cousin and aunt are dentists.

“Seeing their dedication to patient care and how they positively impacted people’s lives really influenced me,” he shared.

What drew him specifically to dental hygiene was the preventive and educational aspect of it. Dental hygiene, he explained, gives him the opportunity to help patients maintain their oral health before issues even begin.

Balancing work and study with only 2-month prep

The 24-year-old topnotcher had two months to prepare for the licensure exam while working for four days a week.

Balancing his review sessions and his full-time job was no easy task. He admitted it was easy for him to get overwhelmed and ‘it was difficult to dedicate as much time to studying.’ His strategy? Time management and discipline.

“Breaking up the learning material into chunks was definitely my path to success,” he added.

At one point, he had to deal with last-minute patient cancellations for his practical exam. Circumstances as such tested his resolve, yet he remained positive and resilient, constantly reminding himself of how much he had already prepared.

No expectation of topping the board

Asked if he ever set out a goal or expected to be on the top rank, he said, “Not at all.”

“It crossed my mind once and I thought it was too ambitious so I just brushed it off. My goal was to pass the board, plain and simple,” he relayed.

Gratitude at the core

Carl attributed his success to his faith and support from loved ones. 

“There’s a famous quote: ‘Do your best and God will do the rest.’ I did my part, I asked, and He delivered,” the topnotcher said.

He likewise extended gratitude to his family ‘for their unwavering support – financially, mentally, and spiritually through their prayers.’

Further, he gave special recognition to his girlfriend, saying her encouragement, patience and belief in him made such a huge difference.

Advice to future examinees

For future examinees, he has this direct and powerful piece of advice: “Study hard, study smart, and pray.”

For now, Carl plans to continue building his career in the dental hygiene profession, as it’s the field he is passionate about and is committed to. He is also considering pursuing dentistry in the future.