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Every scar tells a story of survival, and every step forward is a tribute to those who guide us from afar. My name is Rhadz Macendo, and my story begins in Leyte, where I was born. My journey continued in Bohol, where I spent my childhood alongside my mother, whose love and strength became the foundation of my life. Losing her this year was the most painful moment I’ve faced, leaving a void that words cannot fill. Yet, her lessons continue to guide me as I move forward.

Currently, I live with my father in Pondol, Balamban, Cebu, while pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at Cebu Technological University Tuburan Campus. Life as the youngest in the family, often called "the last card," comes with its challenges. However, I draw inspiration from my kuya, a mechanical engineer, whose achievements motivate me to persevere.

When I’m not deeply involved in academics, I find comfort in the worlds of anime, manga, and manhwa, which allow me to escape and recharge. I also cherish moments with my girlfriend, who adds joy and balance to my life. Soup dishes are my ultimate comfort food, warming both body and soul.

This journey isn’t just about chasing a career; it’s about turning grief into strength and honoring my mother’s memory. Each step I take is fueled by a determination to succeed, a promise to make my family proud, and a belief in the strength I’ve gained from every scar.

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What’s the biggest fear of a 19-year-old boy? If someone were to ask me this, I’d probably say, “Nothing,” but deep inside, I know that’s not true. My fear of dolls is something I rarely admit. There’s just something about their presence, the blank stares, the lifelike features, that feels creepy to me. It’s a weakness I try to brush off, but it still makes me uneasy.

However, this fear is only surface-level. What truly scares me is disappointing the people around me, especially my family. Their high expectations weigh heavily on me. I often feel like I’m not good at anything, yet I keep trying and learning in the hope of meeting some of their standards. The thought of failing terrifies me, not just because of the failure itself, but because of the judgment that might follow. People rarely see the battles I fight every day, but who am I to complain when they say, “Mahirap mag-aral, pero mas mahirap ang nagpapa-aral.”

I fear losing the people I care about because of my mistakes or shortcomings. The idea that someone could leave me just because I failed at something haunts me. In this world, it feels like we’re born into a cycle of seeking validation from others. As they say, “we are not defined by our fears, but by how we face them.” These words remind me that while my fears are real, they are not what will define me. I’m learning to embrace them and use them to grow stronger.

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“As they say, ‘‘Success is not just about what we achieve, but about the impact we leave on the lives of others. ’This saying reminds me that true success is measured not by wealth, but by the lives we touch. What keeps me going? It’s the love and support of my family. Having experienced life’s hardships, I find strength in their presence. Whether they are near or far, their silent support gives me the power to face each day with determination.

I dream of a future where I can give back to my family. I imagine holding a stack of money, building a house, owning cars, and sharing my success with others. I want to provide a stable and peaceful life for those I love. More than anything, I long to show my mom that I’ve made it, that I’ve achieved something significant, even though she’s no longer here to see it.

While I look forward to the future, I also wonder where this journey will take me. I want to experience the world, see how my life unfolds, and embrace whatever challenges come my way. Every step forward is an opportunity to grow, and I know I’ll continue pushing forward with the hope of making my family proud. No matter where life takes me, I carry their love with me, always.