Pedicab driver’s son lands 3rd spot in mechanical engineering licensure exam

COTABATO CITY – Being a scholar and son of a pedicab driver, Nelbert Iligan Sumalpong didn't lead the life of privilege many of his classmates in Notre Dame University (NDU) did.

But this didn't stop him from pursuing his dream of becoming an engineer.

Sumalpong emerged as Top 3 at the recently concluded Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination (MELE) from a total of 3,517 passers out of 5,098 who took the exams. He got a rating of 90.10%.

The national passing rate of the exam conducted on September 28 to 29 is 68.98%, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) said.

Other Mindanawon topnotchers were Xavier University’s Jay Nelson Corbita topped the board with a rating of 92.20% while Jakal Castillon Suyo, Magna Cum Laude of the Ateneo de Davao University.

Sumalpong is the second NDU alumni to top the MELE. In September 2016, Elso Umbao Elumbaring Jr. placed first. NDU's overall performance is 100% with five first-time takers passing and one repeater passing.

Sumalpong's father, Emedio worked as a pedicab driver and his mother, Michelle is a housewife. He is the fourth among five children.

Nelbert (to many of his friends) graduated from NDU in March 2017 as a Magna cum Laude. He finished high school in Notre Dame Village National High School as a Valedictorian, with awards for excellence in science, math and other subjects.

"I took up mechanical engineering because I am fond of mathematics and physics when I was still in high school, and these subjects are the foundations of this course," he said.

It was no ordinary feat, and Nelbert said he can only attribute his success to his faith to God, and encouragement from family and friends.

As a new breed of mechanical engineers, Nelbert plans to practice his profession, acquire his professional Mechanical Engineer license and become a renowned engineer someday.

"All you need to do is set your goals and work for it. Learn to prioritize things. Believe in yourself and have faith in God. Remember that success comes when preparation meets opportunity," he said.

As top 3 at the MELE, Nelbert will receive a R80, 000 from NDU as a reward.