Written by: NUP Merlie A. Dacunos
This week we will feature another empowered woman whose life was not a bed of roses. She initially faced many obstacles before she got the prize for all her struggles. A story of defying the odds to succeed. She may be derailed in her plans but she persevered to realize her dreams. A resilient woman that bounced back every time she is challenged.
Today, let’s be inspired by PCMS Rowena Alesna Santillan’s story and rise to become a fulfilled woman and public servant. Our featured police officer of the week hails from Barangay Caipilan, Poblacion 1, Carcar City, Cebu.
Her father worked as a farmer while her mother is a businesswoman and owner of an Ampao Manufacturing. Their life was simple yet they struggled economically.
When PCMS Santillan was young it was drilled into her mind that education is not important because no one became rich from studying. But contrary to her father’s belief, she persevered in her studies even if it was against his wishes.
PCMS Santillan recalled that she used to help her father in their rice fields, she cannot go to school without helping her father in plucking the weeds. Daily, she went to school without pocket money even if she had to walk one kilometer every day.
During her high school years, she had to stop for two years due to being economically challenged. The business of her mother was down. At that time, private schools were the only available schools in their nearby residence. In order to continue her ambition, she sacrificed and got employed in a factory in Mandaue City, Cebu. At 15 years old, she endured hardships in order to save money for schooling. Additionally, she experienced being a shopkeeper in her aunt’s store in Cebu City.
After working for two years she was able to save money, finally she was able to finish high school with her diligence and perseverance.
During college, she doubled her efforts helping in the ampao and burarilyo business of her mother so that she can pay for her tuition. PCMS Santillan had to stop for one semester for they experienced yet another difficulty in their finances. During this time, she was employed as a caregiver.
In October 9, 1999 she completed her degree in Bachelor of Science in Criminology at the University of Cebu. PCMS Santillan then worked in order for her to take a review for the board examination. Luckily, in 2001 she passed as a licensed Criminologist.
It took her three applications before she was admitted to the Philippine National Police. In September 1, 2005 she became a member of the organization.
Her marriage may not have worked out but despite that she is loved by her two children, Denise Alexandrea and Moises John. Both kids continue to make PCMS Santillan proud for they are consistent honor students. Despite the setbacks of her marriage, her children are her inspiration to go on and continue the fight.
Currently, she is assigned in Carcar City Police Station working as the Women and Children Protection Desk In-charge. She works diligently helping mother and children in conflict with the law.
PCMS Rowena Alesna Santillan personifies the quote “You never fail until you stop trying.” By Albert Einstein. Nothing was ever accomplished by someone who didn’t put in the work. If you set goals and keep moving towards them, there is no reason you can’t succeed.
You are an inspiration and a reflection of those who experienced difficulties in life. A proof that, there is nothing a woman cannot surpass no matter how unsurmountable it may be, Mabuhi ka PCMS Rowena Alesna Santillan! Padayun lang!
Source: Cebu Police Provincial Office
