MANILA, Philippines – With his short height and "baby face" looks, many would be surprised that "little boy" is already a teacher.
Ian Francis Manga's story of rising against criticisms to achieve one's goals has inspired many netizens.
Review center owner Dr. Carl Balita recalled how he was at first puzzled why a little boy was interested in reading their Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) review materials. "Akala ko sinama lang ng nanay niya," he said.
Now, Sir Ian is a licensed elementary level teacher after he passed the March 2019 LET. Many would always be amazed when he says that his age is actually 23 years old.
"Madalas akala nila Grade 1 ako or kinder," Sir Ian said.
Sir Ian doesn't share much about what happened why he seems to have delayed growth. He just said that while growing up, he was a sickly child.
The newly-licensed teacher said how he used to be ridiculed and underestimated for his looks. Other tend to belittle him because they think he is "young." But Sir Ian said he has risen to the challenges and ignored the hurtful criticisms.
Sir Ian gave a short message for those who like him that are being bullied. He said, "Ignore them but patunayan mo rin na kaya mong wala sila, na mali sila."
The inspiring teacher said he wants to teach to follow his mother who is also a teacher. Sir Ian also added he wants to share with students his love for the arts.
Sir Ian's story has been viewed over 143,000 since posting. It has also been flooded with positive comments for his determination and hardwork.
A netizen commented, "Height doesn't matter po sa pagtupad ng pangarap. Congrats Sir Ian!"
You can watch the video here:
— Sally, The Summit Express
Ian Francis Manga often mistaken for a grade schooler | Photo Courtesy: Facebook/ Ian Francis Manga |
Ian Francis Manga's story of rising against criticisms to achieve one's goals has inspired many netizens.
Review center owner Dr. Carl Balita recalled how he was at first puzzled why a little boy was interested in reading their Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) review materials. "Akala ko sinama lang ng nanay niya," he said.
Now, Sir Ian is a licensed elementary level teacher after he passed the March 2019 LET. Many would always be amazed when he says that his age is actually 23 years old.
"Madalas akala nila Grade 1 ako or kinder," Sir Ian said.
Sir Ian doesn't share much about what happened why he seems to have delayed growth. He just said that while growing up, he was a sickly child.
The newly-licensed teacher said how he used to be ridiculed and underestimated for his looks. Other tend to belittle him because they think he is "young." But Sir Ian said he has risen to the challenges and ignored the hurtful criticisms.
Sir Ian admits he has been through bullying for his "young looks" | Photo Courtesy: Facebook/ Ian Francis Manga |
Sir Ian gave a short message for those who like him that are being bullied. He said, "Ignore them but patunayan mo rin na kaya mong wala sila, na mali sila."
The inspiring teacher said he wants to teach to follow his mother who is also a teacher. Sir Ian also added he wants to share with students his love for the arts.
Sir Ian's story has been viewed over 143,000 since posting. It has also been flooded with positive comments for his determination and hardwork.
A netizen commented, "Height doesn't matter po sa pagtupad ng pangarap. Congrats Sir Ian!"
You can watch the video here:
— Sally, The Summit Express