Vendor gets college degree

JAYKUMMER Teberio may be wearing a straw hat adorned with artificial blossoms today, but the water vendor will be trading this for a graduation cap a month from now.

The 21-year-old, better known as Dodoy, is popular among commuters and motorists passing by A. Soriano St. in Barangay Mabolo, and among netizens, too.

He does not only help people quench their thirst on the road but also relieves them of their stress with his creative way of selling bottled water.

“I’m very thankful. Despite all the challenges I had to overcome, I will soon reap the fruits of my labor,” he told SunStar Cebu.

Dodoy, the third child in a brood of four, started selling water on the streets at 12 years old to help his parents pay for his studies.

His mother, Flor, recalled how her son survived the pollution and heat as they sold goods on the sidewalk every day.

Dodoy would be up by 5 a.m. to help his mother set up their stall and leave for school at 7 a.m. By 3 p.m., he would be out on the streets to sell. This he did from Grade 6 until his senior year in college.

Flor, however, lamented the flak that his son drew for his way of selling bottled waters.

“I was called several names such as boang (crazy), but I don’t mind. Those negative comments have inspired me to work harder and study better. At least what I’m doing is decent,” Dodoy said.

Fueled by his experiences and passion for teaching, the Bachelor of Science in Education student said he wants youngsters to pursue their goals despite the adversities.

Dodoy is a music, arts, physical education, and health major at the University of Cebu.

He plans to work for a private school after passing the board exam.

The teacher in the making may soon be free of the smog and heat, but the streets will always have a place in his heart.

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