A Journey from Homelessness to Academic Success
At the age of 12, Eugene Dela Cruz found himself on the streets of Manila, homeless and struggling to survive. He slept under tricycles, begged for bread, and faced the harsh realities of life without a stable home. His story is one of resilience, determination, and transformation.
Eugene’s life took a turn when his parents divorced, and neither of them took responsibility for him. This left him with no choice but to fend for himself. He survived by begging for food, using public restrooms as a place to wash his body and clothes, and seeking shelter in alleys or under parked tricycles during the rain. These were the conditions he endured daily.
In a social media post, he reflected on this difficult period: “Public restrooms became my sanctuary: where I washed my body, my clothes, and tried, vainly, to scrub away the shame.” His words reveal the emotional toll of his situation, yet they also highlight his inner strength.
Four years later, a charity stepped in and helped him return to school. He began attending junior high and quickly excelled academically. He completed vocational high school in 2021, demonstrating his commitment to education despite the odds stacked against him.
Eugene’s determination led him to apply to Ateneo de Manila University, one of the top institutions in the Philippines. Ranked second in the country by QS University Rankings 2026, the university provided him with financial aid through its admissions relief office and alumni association. This support allowed him to pursue his studies without the burden of financial stress.
To further support himself, Eugene worked as a tutor and choreographer for university festivals. His efforts paid off, and he was able to balance his academic responsibilities with part-time work. He often spoke about the support he received from the university community, saying, “Ateneo saw beyond my tattered story and took a chance on someone like me. They didn’t see empty forms, just a child desperate for a second chance.”
On June 21, Eugene graduated from Ateneo de Manila University with a degree in Economics, majoring in Financial Economics. He also earned third prize for his outstanding thesis, a testament to his academic excellence. In a social media post, he shared, “I wasn’t meant to make it here, but by some grace, I did.”
His story has resonated with people across the Philippines, gaining widespread attention and admiration. Many have praised his perseverance in overcoming poverty, while others have criticized his parents for abandoning him. Regardless of the opinions, his journey serves as an inspiration to many.
In his thesis dedication, Eugene left a powerful message for others facing hardship: “You possess a strength no hardship can steal. Because that strength carried me past broken dreams, past every ‘no’, past every night I thought I couldn’t survive, straight to this very moment.”
Eugene’s story is a reminder that no matter how difficult the circumstances, there is always hope. His journey from homelessness to academic success is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the support of those who believe in you. It is a story that continues to inspire and motivate others to strive for their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may face.
