“Some dreams take longer to bloom, but when they do, they shine in their own perfect time”
For Arman B. Butangen, 23, growing up as the eldest child meant carrying responsibilities beyond his years. While other children focus on schoolwork, he pushed himself in helping his mother put food on the table. Education seemed like a luxury; one he thought they couldn’t afford.
Deep down, this young man from Man-Atong, Suyo, Ilocos Sur, knew his dreams werenโt just his ownโthey were for his family, too.
Determined not to let circumstances define him, Arman took a bold step, enrolling in the Alternative Learning System continuing junior high school until senior high school. But little did he know that the road ahead was steep.
One evening, his mother, in her voice laced with quiet sorrow, said, “Anak, adeh kan manbasan a di college, adak kaya sika ay mapabasa.” (My son, donโt go to college, I canโt afford it.)
His dream of higher education seemed to slip further, but instead of surrendering, he turned to prayer, telling himself, โThere is always a way,โ and then, as if the universe heard him, an opportunity knockedโthe Fisheries Scholarship Program (FSP) by BFAR.
“I didn’t hesitate to file my application, it’s an opportunity I should not miss. With prayers and dedication, I’ve passed the Nationwide examination and enrolled at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-South La Union Campus.”
Coming from an upland community, the world of fisheries was unfamiliarโtechnical terms, new environments, and a whole industry he had never explored. Though with every challenge, he pushed forward.
The struggles didnโt end after graduation, but neither did Armanโs perseverance. He continued his endeavor and prepared for the Licensure Examination for Fisheries Professionalsโand passed on his first take.
“Iโve come to realize that as a fisheries graduate, opportunities are endlessโyou even get to choose where you want to work.”
Now, he stands on the other side of the journey, no longer just a dreamer but a doer. As a Fisheries Quarantine Aide at the Tagudin Fisheries Checkpoint, Arman dedicates his days to enforcing laws, protecting marine resources, and giving back to the community that raised him.
“As I work, I see the beauty in fisheries law enforcement, and I am happy doing my job.”
He is now currently pursuing a Masterโs Degree in Fisheries at Pangasinan State University-Open University System, determined to deepen his knowledge and continue making a difference.
