A Matigsalug Daughter’s Path to a College Degree

During Bukidnon State University’s (BukSU) 92nd Commencement Exercises on June 19, 2026, social media timelines filled with photographs of graduates in black togas celebrating one of life’s biggest milestones alongside their proud families.

Among the images that captured widespread attention was a photo series by Liemuel E. Pantuhan, featuring graduates Betty A. Anggatao and Adey A. Ilagan with their families. The photographs stood out because both parents of Betty and Adey attended the ceremony wearing their traditional Matigsalug attire. Other images captured heartfelt family embraces that resonated with thousands online.

For many netizens, the photographs celebrated the pride of graduation. For Betty, however, they told a much deeper story.

Anggatao, who hails from Lugawo, Barangay Kalagangan in San Fernando, Bukidnon, earned her Bachelor of Science in Community Development after overcoming obstacles that once seemed impossible. Her journey affirms that delays are not denials.

Aside from earning a college degree, Anggatao considers her graduation as a celebration for her family, her tribe, and every young Indigenous students who dares to dream beyond the boundaries of circumstance.

Her journey began when BukSU opened its doors through the university’s Affirmative Action Program (AAP) under the Diversity and Inclusion Unit.

Since 2021, the AAP has provided opportunities for aspiring students who demonstrate academic potential in their chosen programs, particularly those from special populations, including Indigenous Peoples, working students, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Anggatao is one of 15 children born to organic farmers. Although she dreamed of finishing college, the path before her was filled with challenges.

According to Anggatao, pursuing higher education remains uncommon in her community because many families struggle financially. Traditional arranged marriages, locally known as buya, also influence the lives of many young people. In addition, local folklore tells of a mythical snake named Elegasi, whose story has long discouraged children from attending school.

Still, she chose to believe that education could change her future.

For three years, she accepted every honest job she could find to pay for her education. She worked as a domestic cleaner, weeded agricultural fields, and served as a masseuse. She owned only one pair of shoes. On difficult days, she eased her hunger with guavas or a bowl of rice sprinkled with salt.

Even then, she never told her parents how difficult life had become. Instead, she carried the burden quietly while her parents borrowed money whenever they could to send whatever support was possible.

“My graduation proves that all the hardships were worth it,” she shared. “It is not only my success. It is also my family’s success and my tribe’s victory.”

Her parents never stopped reminding their children that education is a treasure that lasts a lifetime.

“Menge anak ka sika se kateunan wey kag makapunga kew tu kaniye ne pugskwela sikandu ka butang ne kenu ug katakaw, ug keileg, wey ug kabilin tee tew ku kuno ug kaalap-alap niye sika pehen bisan undei kew ug pabaye-baye wey hangted tekaniye ne kamatyen.” 

(My children, your education and the degree you will earn are treasures that no one can steal, take away, or leave behind. They will always be yours wherever you go, and you will carry them for the rest of your life.)

Today, Anggatao carries those words with her as she returns to San Fernando.

She plans to dedicate her future to advancing the welfare of the lumad people through initiatives in education, sustainable economic development, and youth empowerment.

The photographs that inspired thousands online captured only a few moments of celebration. The story behind them tells of years of resilience, a family’s unwavering belief in education, and a university that opened opportunities for students whose dreams deserved a chance.

“Do not let poverty, discrimination, or the words of other people stop you from reaching your dreams. “Your education is not only for yourself. It is hope for your family, your community, and the next generation,” Anggatao said. (Rejean A. Fajardo, Gia G. Fernandez, Garlyn Jell G. Ortizano/ CD and DC Department Interns)