I am Mary Catherine Billones De la Torre, the FIRST Deaf LET passer from Iloilo City.
Before, I dreamed about being an owner of a business in the fashion industry. My mom and I discussed where I can go to college for it. I told my mom that I needed to study in Manila but my mom told me that we donโt have the means for me to study there. She informed me that Central Philippine University in Iloilo City is accepting Deaf students. My mom also knew that I wanted to help the poor so initially I was supposed to take Social Work. Mr. Irving Rio, the head of the Department of Political Science suggested that I take Education instead because it might be better for me. There were six of us Deaf who enrolled but I was the only one in Education. The others enrolled in Information Technology.ย
Later on, the others left and I became the lone Deaf in the school.
There was a time that I actually gave up school too. I didnโt want to go because I didnโt like Education at first and there was no interpreter in the classroom โ it was very difficult. I told my mom again that I wanted to study in Manila. I was always discouraged, frustrated, hurt, and unhappy and did not enjoy college life. However, the dean of the College of Education encouraged me and told me not to give up and be an inspiration to others. My teachers and friends also helped and encouraged me to go on. By Godโs grace I was able to graduate last 2012 but I was worried about my future and where I could find work.
Later on, my aunt told me that I needed to take the LET and urged me to try. My mom looked for a review center and she found CBRC. The CBRC staff in Iloilo City were very good and friendly and the lectures really helped a lot. I enjoyed reviewing there. I am also very grateful that CBRC allowed me to review at no cost. I was nervous in taking the test but the CBRC staff convinced me that I was ready to take the LET and that, whether pass or fail, at least I will be able to experience it. I met Sir Carl during the final coaching in the University of San Agustin, also in Iloilo City. I saw for myself how nice and gracious he was. He was very encouraging and inspiring to all the reviewers as well!
After this, I took the LET. By Godโs help, I passed on the first try! Praise the Lord! I was also overjoyed to be able to be interviewed for TV and be able to inspire others as well! I am also humbled that CBRC named their scholarship for deserving PWDs after me. I got my first job as a teacher at Baguio School for the Deaf. Now, I am enjoying teaching kids at the Bible Institute for the Deaf in Valenzuela City while also taking additional courses for Christian ministry. Even though I had many struggles in life, Jesus did not want me to be discouraged but instead wants the best for me. Iโm always dreaming of big things and I know that I have a bigger God and He has the perfect plan for my life. Now, I dream of having my own school in the future to help poor and special children as my ministry.
I am thankful to Sir Carl and the CBRC family, my mom Vicky, brother Manoy Jobe, sister-in-law Manay Abby, aunts and uncles, cousins, Central Philippine University family, SPED-ISEC family, Doane Baptist Academy family, Bethel Christian Academy family, BSD family, and BID family, as well as my teachers, pastors, friends, and classmates. Without them, this would not be possible. To God be all the glory!
