Mr. Pelias at a young age of 19 garnered the second highest GWA in the history of UP breaking a 63-year post-World War II record. He finished his high school and college education through scholarship grants and would even use his scholarship money to fend for his family and walk his way to school to save up on costs. He has proven that with dedication, focus and determination, poverty is not a hindrance to pursuing an education and achieving academic excellence
Mr. Pelias has signified his intention of staying in the country and giving back to the people who subsidized his education by pursuing a teaching career in the Institute of Mathematics. In his valedictory address, he encouraged his fellow "Iskolars ng Bayan" to serve the Filipino people, saying: "The least we can do in return to this country's taxpayers who paid a huge part of the UP education is to dedicate even just some time of our lives in the service of the Filipino people."
Mr. Pelias made history with his meritorious academic record at UP. He serves as a sterling example and role model to the Filipino youth, truly worthy of emulation.
In this connection, the Department of Education (DepEd) congratulates and commends Mr. John Gabriel Pelias for his academic excellence award and appreciates his dedication to his country and by pursuing a teaching career in the field of Mathematics. - https://www.affordablecebu.com/
