POVERTY NOT AN EXCUSE TO FAIL – VP NOLI
April 9, 2008

Vice President Noli “Kabayan” De Castro challenged young Filipinos to become achievers even as warned them not to make poverty an excuse to settle for a life of mediocrity.

De Castro made the remarks recently (April 7) during graduation ceremonies at the Marinduque State College where he also paid tribute to four Filipinos who during their time were considered young achievers: national heroes Jose Rizal and Gregorio del Pilar, the late Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. and renowned Filipina pediatrician Fe del Mundo.

De Castro told the school’s Class of 2008 that their achievements will not be judged according to the money and wealth they amass for themselves.

“You will be measured according to the difference that you made in the lives of others,” he emphasized.

De Castro also warned against using poverty as a reason not to achieve. He lamented his experience in the housing sector where some potential housing beneficiaries resisted the government’s offer of a new and better life in resettlement sites.

"Some of our countrymen told me they would rather stay poor rather than try the uncertainty of new life," he said. "This means there are poor Filipinos whose poverty is a product of choice rather than circumstance," he added.

"Poverty and mediocrity can be tempting, he said. Resist the temptation to settle for mediocrity," he urged the graduates.

De Castro explained that true achievers are those who make a mark not for themselves but for others. He said Rizal , Del Pilar, Aquino and Del Mundo are remembered not because of what they have achieved for themselves but for the freedom and better lives that they helped their countrymen gain.

De Castro said the country needs young achievers today more than ever.

"The country is facing major challenges that require the help of young Filipinos who are concerned with the well-being of their countrymen more than with their own personal gains," he underscored.

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