University of Cebu

“I don’t know how to drive, but I’ll take that home with me!”

Thus spoke Custom Brokers Licensure Exams first placer Albert Peyusan Baraliso when asked about his prize. He makes no bones about his excitement in receiving the windfall. Luck could have been a good word, if you see it sans the efforts. And as he stood beside the car prize, with his family in tow, you could easily see on his face how he made himself worthy of the brand new Toyota Vios—the enviably splendid shiny blue gray sedan which was flown in from Manila over the weekend for the October 22, 2007 photo opportunity and ceremonial key turn over officiated by UC President Atty. Augusto W. Go.

Way back in elementary and high school, Albert Barliso wasn’t always an academic achiever. But he stepped it up upon entering college, becoming a consistent dean’s lister. He took up Customs Administration because of the influence of his brother, Anacleto, of the March, 2004 batch who also holds the same degree as his. However, he wasn’t able to graduate with honors. “I had one dropped subject,” he said with remorse.

After graduation, Barliso self-reviewed for almost a year. Instead of getting a job, he chose to devote his time and energy in preparing for the exam. “I wanted so bad to make it to the top ten because of the cash prize,” he quipped. During the examinations, a rosary on his left wrist gave him comfort and a sense of divine companionship.

His efforts paid off as he reached the pinnacle with an average of 87.50%. The news of the first placer hit UC big, and was announced over the conferment and commencement rites at the Cebu Coliseum on October 17, 2007.

“I couldn’t even believe I placed first,” he disclosed of his conversation with the Dean on the evening of October 16, 2007 via a mobile phone.

“I really want to help my family,” confessed Barliso. “They have always been very supportive,” he added. He also credits Customs Dean Alejandro Carin, his teachers, classmates and friends, and the university’s administrators for their support.

As the Vios stood at the UC Main activity center while the papers are expedited, Barliso still stayed awed by the prized vehicle. “It’s very new and I’ve never driven before,” he said with candor.