Meet the first-ever architect of Kabugao, Apayao

Success does not happen overnight. It is a journey filled with ups and downs, where one has to strive determinedly and burn the midnight oil to achieve the desired goal.

Just like the first-ever architect from Kabugao, Apayao, Arl Dave Dangao Portacio, who had to shed 'blood and sweat' before attaining his current position.

Portacio completed his degree in Architecture at Saint Louis University. He spent five years at the architecture school, followed by two years of apprenticeship before taking the January 2024 Architect Licensure Examination.

In a Facebook post, Portacio reflected on his journey, likening it to a mountain climb, stating, "To be honest, I'm happy being the first. I always wanted to be the first, but the road was never easy. There were no paths for me to follow, nor a certain format to begin with. But being the first made me have no choice but to continue and start from scratch. It was pure blood and sweat."

The new architect acknowledged the people who were with him as he achieved this milestone in his life, expressing profound gratitude to them.

"With determination, hard work, prayers, and manifestation, I can finally say I made it! I am beyond grateful for everyone who was with me along the journey, especially our Lord, magyaman na tula Apu," he conveyed.

Apart from being an architect, Portacio is also a licensed master plumber.