From Math Passion to Top Engineer: Cebu Graduate Tops 2026 Licensure Exam
Rico Elao, a 22-year-old magna cum laude graduate from Cebu Technological University–Dumanjug Extension Campus, has transformed his childhood love for mathematics into a remarkable professional achievement. Elao secured the top position in the March 2026 Civil Engineering Licensure Examination, achieving an impressive 94.10 percent rating.
A Shared Victory at the Pinnacle
According to results released by the Professional Regulation Commission on Tuesday, April 7, Elao tied for first place nationwide with Marc Pasumbal of Mapua University–Manila. The young engineer from Barangay Guadalupe in Alegria, southwestern Cebu, expressed surprise at his achievement, despite feeling confident about passing the examination.
"I believed I would make it, but I found it hard to declare I would top the exam," Elao admitted. "If someone had asked me before, I wouldn't have said I was aiming for it because I wasn't sure — but after topping the exam, I now can admit that I really was."
Mathematics: A Lifelong Passion
Elao's journey began in Grade 1 when he first discovered his fascination with mathematics. "When I was in Grade 1, I already knew that I really liked this subject," he recalled. Throughout his elementary years, he earned recognition for his mathematical abilities while enjoying typical Filipino childhood games like marbles and rubber bands.
"That's the one thing I'm sure about myself — no matter where I am," Elao emphasized regarding his enduring passion for mathematics.
Overcoming Challenges Through Perseverance
While mathematics brought him fulfillment, Elao acknowledged the subject's inherent difficulties. "It's not always enjoyable. There are times when it's really difficult, but once you understand it, it feels really good when you're able to solve it," he explained. This perseverance through challenging problems proved crucial during his engineering studies and board examination preparation.
Before his licensure examination success, Elao had already demonstrated exceptional ability in academic competitions:
- Won the Don Tomas Mapúa National Civil Engineering Quiz Show in 2024
- Became national civil engineering quizzer champion in 2025 in Manila
Family Support and Educational Journey
Elao credits much of his success to his supportive family. His sister played a pivotal role by enrolling him at CTU-DEC, located closer to her workplace in Barili to reduce educational expenses. As the eldest of six siblings and the first college graduate in the family, she supported Elao through his studies.
"I really persevered to finish," Elao stated, acknowledging that his parents, who work as farmers in Alegria, would have struggled to support his education independently.
Turning Point and Academic Focus
Like many students, Elao faced distractions from mobile games during high school and college. A significant turning point occurred during his second year when engineering department chairman John Renel Capillanes recognized his potential and encouraged greater focus.
"You have potential," Capillanes told him, prompting Elao to eliminate distractions and concentrate on his studies. This renewed focus led to his magna cum laude graduation and a scholarship at a review center, allowing him to begin board examination preparation as early as his second year without additional costs.
Adapting to Educational Limitations
Elao demonstrated remarkable resourcefulness in overcoming limited laboratory facilities at his campus by utilizing online educational resources. "If there's something I don't understand, I just watch it on YouTube," he explained, while acknowledging that hands-on learning remains distinct from digital instruction.
During the intensive two-day licensure examination, Elao experienced both excitement and anxiety, sleeping only about two hours before the first day. He pushed through with disciplined preparation and determination.
Gratitude and Future Outlook
Elao emphasized that his success resulted from more than individual effort alone. He expressed deep gratitude to his teachers, mentors, parents, and sister for their unwavering support throughout his educational journey. Despite opportunities to study at larger urban universities, Elao remained content with his educational path, proving that exceptional achievement can emerge from any learning environment with dedication and proper support.
The young engineer's story serves as an inspiring example of how childhood passion, when nurtured through perseverance and community support, can lead to extraordinary professional accomplishment.
