Beneath the vast expanse of sky where golden fields stretch out like a quilt, a child stands, in the heart of the farm. Above, an airplane weaves its metallic dance, humming secrets to the wind. The child tilts his head, imagining himself aboard those silver birds. A passenger of dreams, soaring toward distant lands. He marvels at where they are going. And then, as if the universe conspires to delight him, a ship emerges from the earth itself. Its salt-kissed hull rises from the waves, which lights flicker like constellations: ruby red, sapphire blue, amber like the sinking sun. Here, where earth meets sky and sea meets land, he knows that magic exists, in the ordinary and extraordinary. He learns that wonder knows no bounds. And as day turns to dusk, he whispers to the wind: “Fly, silver birds, sail, ancient ships—carry my dreams with you.”

“Uy, Ernesto, mata na! Manguli na.” [Hey Ernesto, wake up. It's time to go home.] His alarm clock, voiced by his instructor and classmates, has rang. Finally, his day will come to an end.

In the spotlight’s embrace, an alumnus returns, adorned in wisdom’s attire. With each note, he weaves dreams, igniting flames in young hearts, through his song 'I Am A Teacher'.

Three versions of reality. A version that exists before the agony, during the torment, and after the woes of his life. Inasmuch as, we are all a piece of memory we make.

Ernesto Serdena Pamolarco, Jr. - a name inked in school records of Naval Institute of Technology (NIT), now Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), as a student from June 1983 to March 1989. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Education majoring in English and minoring in Mathematics. Three decades after, he now sits as the President of United Federation of the Filipino-American Educators in America (UNIFFIED) Queens Chapter, the Founder/CEO of Educational Services and Placement Agency (ESPA) in the USA, and concurrently works as an independent Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS) provider / special education teacher in the New York City Department of Education. Moreover, he is a Master of Arts in Education with a focus on Educational Administration; a Master of Science in Education with a major in Special Education, Early Childhood, and General Education (K-12); and a Doctor of Philosophy in Education with a specialization in English Language Education. He was awarded as an Outstanding Educator and Community Leader from prestigious public and private organizations in the Philippines and in New York. Also, he has chaired the Youth Success Global Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to children with learning disabilities.

Breathtakingly wondrous. Bet no minds could think this is what the pedicab driver working student has become. Yes, Ernesto, also known as Toto, did trample a pedicab to support his education back then. But, why?

Shattered Innocence

Born on 9th of March 1966, Ernesto joined six siblings in a household fostered by Ernesto Pamolarco, Sr. and Pacita Serdena in Jubay, Calubian, Leyte, where love and resilience flourished, despite the financial constraints that shadowed their days.

Ernesto recounted his family's struggle with poverty, vividly describing how his mother would carefully divide a meager fish among the seven children, reserving the soup for herself and his father. “Often, our meals consisted of root crops and corn, as rice was a luxury we could rarely afford,” he shared. “There were times when salt was our only viand, and even then, we were grateful for the simple pleasure of eating rice.”

His parents were unable to send all six of his siblings to school. To alleviate their burden, his siblings sought employment as house helpers in bustling cities like Cebu and Manila, sending their earnings back home to Jubay to support the family.

The tranquility of Ernesto's childhood on the farm, gazing up at planes and ships from the serene shores of Higatangan Island, was a stark contrast to the hardships that awaited him.

His life took a tragic turn when his father was brutally murdered during a barangay fiesta in 1976. The family's subsequent downward spiral deepened when his mother remarried a cruel and abusive stepfather. To escape his torment, Ernesto began sleeping away from home, finding refuge with friends or even on the beach. He engaged in harmful behaviors, such as gambling and drinking, which ultimately hindered him from becoming the class valedictorian in elementary.

At thirteen, he left his hometown with his aunt, embarking on a perilous journey to Manila in search of opportunities. To evade paying fare, he was put under the cot. Arriving in the bustling metropolis, he worked as a dishwasher in a Chinese restaurant, earning a meager monthly wage of ₱150. He also  sold plastic wrappers, walking tirelessly from Monumento to Malabon and Navotas. As Toto saved money, he began to envision a brighter future for himself and his family. His dreams of a high school education, once distant and elusive, now seemed within reach.

Pedals to Progress

In the quietude of June 1983, Toto returned to his hometown after a four-year stay in Manila. His footsteps led him to the hallowed halls of the Naval Institute of Technology as a first year high school student despite being 17 years old already.

The Philippine Education Placement Test (PEPT) became Toto's bridge—a swift passage from the past to the future. In April 1985, he sat for this acceleration test, a ticket to the National College Entrance Examination (NCEE). With unwavering resolve, he conquered both assessments, earning his place in NIT's hallowed halls once more. This time, it was the Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) program that beckoned, its evening classes accommodating his daytime labor.

Ernesto's college life unfolded against a backdrop of relentless toil. He recalled a ride on his pedaled tricycle, carrying two hefty passengers across kilometers from the town center going to the provincial capitol. His knees trembled, but the ₱2 fare was more than currency—it was resilience personified.

By day before his classes, he donned various guises aside from being a pedicab driver: a houseboy, baker, karaoke bar operator, and etc. Each role was a stepping stone, a means to an end—the pursuit of knowledge. His nights were spent poring over textbooks, the lamplight casting shadows on his determined face. The mantra etched in his mind echoed: “Eight years as a working student is a worthy sacrifice, far better than a lifetime of unfulfilled dreams.”

Ernesto's exhaustion from his day job often led him to doze off during class, and he could be seen at the back of the room leaning against his backpack. His instructors and classmates would gently nudge him awake when it was time to participate or leave.

Moreover, he actively participated in various school-based organizations. As an Associate Editor of The Pillar Publication, the official college publication, he honed his journalistic and editorial skills. In addition, he served as an elected representative during his first year, advocating for medical and dental services for evening class students. His commitment extended to the Supreme Student Government, where he held the position of vice-president for the Tingog sa Kabataan Party. Beyond campus, he was an engaged member of the Naval Charismatic Youth Movement, alongside his classmate and now parish priest, Fr. Cornelio Amante, Jr. Also, his talents shone in oratorical, singing and debate contests. His academic journey culminated in his graduation on March 21, 1989, with the distinction "Modest User in English."

He had done it. He succeeded and achieved his education. Against all odds.

Life After NIT

Ernesto's teaching career began in June 1990 at Quiapo Parochial School, where he faced the challenge of overcoming his Visayan accent. Despite initial difficulties, his dedication and perseverance allowed him to excel in teaching English grammar, journalism, and literature. His innovative approach inspired students to create original plays and stories based on their favorite songs.

In June 1992, he joined the Bagong Barrio National High School, an annex school of Caloocan High School. He played a pivotal role in its development, becoming the first school paper adviser having founded “The Villager”, the school’s official publication in English. He also composed the school’s official hymn, and mentored students for various competitions, including essay writing and journalism contests.

His commitment to education was recognized in July 1996 when he was promoted to Master Teacher position. He continued to excel in his role at Caloocan High School, where he taught English and Journalism subjects. As the adviser of "The Voice," he led the school paper and his staff writers won awards in the division, regional and national schools press conferences. students to numerous awards at local, regional, and national levels.

In March 2001, Ernesto completed his Master's degree in Education at the Philippine Normal University, Manila. After a year, he was honored with the Teodoro Valencia Award in the field of journalism and the Most Outstanding Teacher in Caloocan City sponsored by the Rotary Club of Sampaguita International Inc. His exceptional performance led to his appointment as Education Supervisor for Guidance, Research, and Evaluation/Information and Technology at the Division of City Schools, Caloocan City from August 25, 2003 to May 15, 2005.

As an education supervisor, he contributed significantly to the division's operations, overseeing various programs and initiatives. He also continued to pursue professional development, earning scholarships to study abroad and in the country. He received the Multimedia Production for Education from January 8 to April 25, 2003 in Okinawa International Centre in Okinawa, Japan; a scholarship on Specialist Certificate in the Teaching of English on February 8 to 27, 1999 in SEAMEO-RELC Singapore; and a Master of Arts in Values Education in June 1999 to March 2001 in the University of Asia and the Pacific in Pasig City.

Beyond his official duties, Ernesto supplemented his income by teaching part-time at various colleges and universities and working in private companies. His dedication to education and his unwavering commitment to his students and community have made him a respected figure in the field.

A Passenger of Dreams Going Global

His dream, a seed sown in quiet soil, now sprouts toward the sun’s embrace.

Ernesto's lifelong vision of traveling around the world, exploring new places, experiencing different cultures and perspectives began to take shape in May 2005 when he embarked on a three-week trip, combining a conference at Michigan State University with sightseeing. Recognizing the opportunity, he reached out to his uncle in North Carolina, Dr. Uldarico Datiles, who advised him to request from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an extension of his stay which was granted for another six months.

While in the United States, he reconnected with an old acquaintance, Mrs. Irene Espiritu, who lived in New York. Inspired by her, he set his sights on pursuing further education in the city. With the help of Professor Lorli Dima-ala, Deputy Chair of the Department of Education and Psychology (Graduate Division) of Touro College, he successfully transitioned from a tourist visa to a student visa.

Financial constraints limited Ernesto's enrollment at Touro College, but his determination and a fortunate job offer in a physical therapy clinic provided the necessary support. He was back to balancing studies and work, even took a dishwasher job, all for his quest on international education. Not putting it into a waste, his perseverance allowed him to complete his Master's degree in Early Childhood and Special Education in June 2010. 

A year later, Ernesto became a certified teacher in New York after passing the Liberal Arts and Science Test, Assessment of Teaching Skills and the Multi Subjects taken in New York State. He pursued a career as a Pre-School and Special Education Teacher. His commitment to the Filipino community led him to volunteer at Paaralan sa Konsulado, a joint project of the Association of Filipino Teachers in America and the Philippine Consulate Office.

Since then, he has been earnest in reaching greater heights—higher than he had sat in planes.

“Education is a lifeline amid the damaging ripple effects of my early journey,” Dr. Pamolarco affirmed. “Education, even when scarce, can illuminate the darkest corners of our existence. Look, I was able to see how education can turn someone’s life around.”

As he made it in the global classroom, he also ensures to make a difference and influence to his students, channeling the power of learning.

“I had the privilege of teaching a young American student with special needs. During our initial meetings, his emotional state was quite fragile. However, by building a connection with him, I was able to encourage him to express himself through writing. To my surprise, his essay reflected a maturity and depth reminiscent of Mitch Albom's Tuesdays with Morrie! Discovering his hidden talent was immensely rewarding. The student's mother, a doctor, expressed her gratitude for helping her son unlock his potential. Now, the student is already an author himself. It was a profound reminder of the transformative power of education and the importance of fostering a supportive learning environment," Dr. Pamolarco shared.

For Ernesto, teaching wasn't a choice; it was a calling. He believes it was destiny, not a decision. Hence, he made a life of teaching, that changes lives.

Footprints Returned

Making a comeback in the institution that has been his home for learning, cultivating camaraderie and overcoming obstacles, Dr. Pamolarco, a few moons ago, graced the Design Thinking Activity conducted by Fundacion Hakuna in partnership with BiPSU. He shared his wisdom through his self-made inspiring song 'I Am A Teacher', which music resonates with aspiring educators, igniting their dreams and passions.

Indeed, he has advanced greatly and has come a long way from trampling his pedicab in college. From napping in classes out of exhaustion, to speaking and singing on stage to uplift young dreamers.

Ernesto wouldn't forget to look back on his roots with overflowing gratitude in his heart for the NIT’s contribution to his current success.

“My affiliation with Biliran Province State University has been instrumental in my victory. It offered me opportunities for growth, mentorship, and a strong foundation in education that has shaped my entire career. It made me who I am today,” he stated.

Moreover, he acknowledged how the institution has evolved like how its graduates flourished.

“Once a relatively unknown island, Biliran has now gained international recognition, in one way or another, due to the prominence of BiPSU,” he added.

Further, Dr. Pamolarco stressed out that it is not the school that can make the students popular. Rather, it is the students who can make the school well known. Wherein, he encouraged students and alumni to keep striving for excellence and be a living inspiration to humankind.

An international alumnus himself, rising from the crucible of hardship. A child of toil, his days were long and hard. Through the tempest of life, he found his way, from poverty's grasp to a brighter day. As a working student, he faced trials untold; but his determination, a story to unfold. With every challenge, his spirit grew stronger, his resolve unwavering, through rain or thunder. He pursued his dreams, with unwavering might. He crossed borders, a world traveler's quest, leaving behind the pain, finding his best. A testament to resilience, his journey a triumph, carving a lasting trace.