BY CLIFFORD JAMES L. DANDUAN/UM Intern
RECOGNIZING his outstanding achievement, the 21st City Council approved a resolution on Tuesday, April 14, commending Luigi Ballota Libarios, the lone Davaoeño topnotcher in the March 2026 Physician Licensure Examination.
Notably, the Brokenshire graduate Libarios placed sixth in the licensure examination with an average rating of 88.75%. The milestone served as a double victory for him, as he previously placed fifth in the 2019 Physical Therapists Licensure Examination with a 85.40% rating.
Councilor Lorenzo Villafuerte proposed the resolution in recognition of the “rare and commendable feat” of the Davaoeño topnotcher, who is also an EBSU scholar under the city’s Medical Education Assistance Program.
In his speech, Villafuerte emphasized that Libarios’ success reflects his intellect and perseverance, as well as serving as an inspiration and a source of pride for Davaoeños.
”His accomplishment is not only a testament to his intellect and perseverance, but also a source of pride for Davao City. May his success serve as an inspiration to our aspiring professionals, reminding them that with discipline, sacrifice, and unwavering determination, excellence is always within reach,” he stated.
On the other hand, Libarios also delivered a speech thanking the City Government of Davao and local officials for continuing to support programs that benefit the people, such as the Educational Benefit System Unit (EBSU).
He said that he is a living testimony of how the city’s program works. He was also aware of his opportunity, considering that countless students had to stop their education for financial reasons.
In an exclusive interview, Libarios encouraged future applicants to persevere, highlighting that his experience applying for the scholarship program was not easy.
”I was hesitant at that time when I applied because the requirements themselves are long, and not all of the public offices are willing to give easy requirements. But again, continue to strive hard because I applied to EBSU not just once, twice, but thrice. First, I applied to college, and I was rejected. Second, I didn’t get accepted. But on the third try, I was accepted by EBSU, and luckily, they accepted my application,” he shared
Now, Libarios intends to teach first before proceeding with his training. ”I’m planning to go down the path of academics first, and then I’m planning to do training soon,” he shared.
Photo by BING GONZALES
