Image: Instagram/@alecdungo
Former “Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition 4” housemate Alec Duñgo finally finished medical school at the University of Santo Tomas — and with honors, no less.
Duñgo, a pharmacist, joined PBB’s fourth teen edition along with actress Myrtle Sarrosa, who emerged as the series’ Big Winner, back in 2012. He was only 17 years old then and was eventually evicted from the show on their 83rd day. Things have worked out for Duñgo since, as he can now proudly say that he is a doctor.
“Today, my childhood dream turned into reality,” Duñgo said via Instagram on Saturday, April 12. “Today, I became a doctor.”
He shared photos of him and his batch mates in UST grounds where they posed with friends and past professors to mark the special occasion. In the photos, Duñgo can be seen posting with signs that said “cum laude” and “meritissimus”, which means highest merit.
In UST, the Latin honors of cum laude, magna cum laude and summa cum laude are bestowed on students who are able to reach a certain general weighted average (GWA) in their grades.
For one to receive a cum laude in the UST medical school, the honors of bene meritus or meritissimus needs to be earned during the oral revalida or final oral exams.
Duñgo dedicated his finishing medical school to his parents and siblings, who were his inspiration throughout his journey.
“To my family — papa, mama, kuya, and Bubut. I offer this humbling achievement to you. You are my inspiration,” he said. “Thank you for helping me become the best version of myself, always.”
He also paid homage to his professors, the staff of the university’s Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, as well as all the residents and interns he worked with in the past. Moreover, he thanked his patients for making him realize that being a doctor is not all about books.
“Thank you for teaching me to heal with compassion,” said Duñgo. “You have inspired me to strive harder to become the best physician that I can be.”
Congratulations, Alec! NVG
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