IRENE
ISIP

On the 14th day of August, 21 years ago, Mr. Arnel and his wife, Lea Isip, had their third and last child. They named her Irene. She grew up with her sister Ruth who is 4 years older and her brother John Paul who is 2 years older. As of today, except for her sister, they are still living under the same roof, their home which is located at Pilpila, Santa Ignacia, Tarlac. Her sister already has a family now but they still live on the same compound. Yes, Irene’s already an aunt of going 2 kids.

                For the past 21 years, Irene did well in her academics which is evident on her report cards. She grew up in a poor family and I believe this has been her driving force to work hard and be as useful and productive as she can. She actively participated in religious activities and that greatly affected her personality development. It’s challenging to live uprightly but by God’s guidance, she’s trying hard to achieve it.

                As of today, Irene is a fourth-year student at Tarlac Agricultural University, College of Education. She’s pursuing her dream to become a professional teacher. Her siblings are licensed professional teachers but they are not the sole reason for aiming at becoming a teacher. Also, due to the pandemic, her father lost his job at Baguio. Her brother is jobless as of now as well. Only her mother has a stable job as Barangay Health Worker with an insufficient salary for the family. Now, she’s doing what she can to earn money. She sells goods, she offers home tutorials. Despite the hardships she’s been facing, she firmly believes that everything happens for a reason and sooner or later, they will be able to surpass it and enjoy the abundant life that God has promised.