I want all the best for you, not a mere survival of those who have little or nothing, but a real existence, living the life that we used to imagine. I type at a time when we are still in the process of decoding but have already learned to hold on to that which makes us feel good.

At this point, I enjoy video games. It is something about watching a world go by, solving mysteries, and getting a level higher that just resonates with me. I hope you can find time to play even in between meetings, business calls, or even on your own private jet (I guess one can wish and hope, right?). Seriously though, don't forget to enjoy. Revisit those instances that gave us a chance to reset and recharge.

I hope you are still playing football. The game, the rush, and the competition are always keeping me level and making me feel alive. Life has probably thrown you so far away already that you no longer have any afternoon games with your friends, but you have used other means to make yourself still move, to still have the same burning fire.

And quite naturally, the people. We now need our friends a lot. They are not only company; they are family. I would like to think that you have always had good people around you regardless of your successes. I hope that you did not get too wealthy to laugh at stupid jokes, to talk at midnight to shed light on things, or just hang out like everything is the same.

Talking of wealthy I trust you got it. May you be richer than we ever dared to dream, not only in money (although I cannot deny that I am envisioning mansions of a few kinds), but also in meaningfulness, contentment, and leisure. Time to spend on what you like. It is time to pay back. Time to spend. And as far as building a life we have always wanted, it should not be one that looks good; it is being good.

Whatever you are, wherever you are, I am proud of you. I want you to be proud of me, too, for having been ambitious, for keeping my feet on the ground, and at no stage abandoning my belief in your possibility of doing something noble.

In the end there are only 2 people you have to make proud in life: the child who dreamed and the elder who lived. Both of them are watching. Keep going, and when sometimes you lose your way in this world, read this again.

With all my belief,

Your former self

It was during this time I learned that when I was hungry there would be someone there to feed me.

It was also during this stage where I developed my resentment for vegetables.

Insisted on choosing certain clothes.

Started potty training as a way of practicing my independence.

Met some of my best friends who have been my friends for 14 years now.

I drew stuff, wrote extremely short stories, and proudly showed it off to others like my parents.

I even tried out new activities like golfing in the photo, even though I was pretty bad at it.

I joined football clubs in Hong Kong and played for my school.

But most importantly was when I made long-term friends here at AdDU.

I explored hobbies like football, however I primarily enjoy playing video games.

I contemplated on my future, such as what course am I going to take in college? Where am I even going to go to college?

But in the end, these experiences shaped who I was, and who I am going to be.

Step 1: Senior High School (2025-2026)

Continue studying under the ABM strand at Ateneo de Davao University to build a strong foundation in accounting, business, and management. Participate in school organizations and leadership roles to develop confidence and discipline.

Step 2: College Education (2026-2030)

Pursue a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy or Financial Management at a reputable university. Focus on courses in corporate finance, taxation, and economics while joining finance-related student organizations.

Step 3: Professional Certification (2030-2032)

Pursue a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) to gain advanced knowledge in finance and leadership.

Step 4: Early Career - Financial Analyst (2032-2036)

Work as a financial analyst or junior accountant to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations. Gain experience in budgeting, auditing, and financial reporting while learning from mentors in the finance field.

Step 5: Career Growth - Finance Manager (2037-2040)

Advance to a Finance Manager or Controller position. Lead small teams, handle financial planning and strategy, and continue developing strong leadership and analytical skills.

Step 6: Career Goal - Chief Financial Officer (2041 onward)

Achieve the position of CFO or Vice President of Finance in a major company. Oversee financial operations, ensure long-term stability, and guide the organization toward sustainable success, just like my father.