Becoming a topnotcher in the Philippine Nurses Licensure Exam (PNLE) is a dream for thousands of aspiring nurses—but for some, the road to success is filled with financial struggles, self-doubt, and personal challenges. The May 2024 PNLE saw remarkable stories of resilience, faith, and determination, proving that success isn’t reserved for the privileged or the academically gifted—it’s earned through perseverance, sacrifice, and belief in oneself.
From Financial Hardships to Topnotcher Status
Abigail Escueta Cayanan, known as Gail, knew from childhood that she was destined to be a nurse. But her path was anything but easy. Coming from a financially struggling family in Trece Martires, Cavite, Gail’s parents fought hard to support her education despite mounting debts. Skepticism from others added to the pressure—some claimed that her success in the pre-board exams was “too good to be true.”
Despite these challenges, Gail topped the May 2024 PNLE with an impressive 92.60% rating. But her success didn’t come without setbacks. A mistake during the exam, where she smudged her answer sheet, almost threw her off. However, her resilience paid off, and when the results were released, she didn’t just pass—she made history.
"Believe in yourself. Work hard. And when others doubt you, let your success be your answer," Gail shared.
Faith Over Fear: How Trusting God Led to Victory
For Zynarik Alzola Tabelisma, faith was the foundation of success. Tabelisma, who ranked Top 3, struggled with procrastination and inconsistent study habits leading up to the exam. On the day of the test, exhaustion took over, and Tabelisma fell asleep mid-exam, waking up with only 15 minutes left and 40 unanswered questions. Panic set in, but faith held firm.
"It is in our weaknesses that the Lord’s glory shines the brightest"
Tabelisma said, reflecting on the moment of uncertainty. Despite the setbacks, divine intervention seemed to work in his favor, securing him a spot in the top 3. His story proves that success isn’t always about having the perfect plan—it’s about trusting the process and believing in something greater.
Breaking Stereotypes: From Beauty Queen to Nursing Topnotcher
Laica Pauline Uy, a former Miss Cebu 2023 candidate, shattered the stereotype that beauty and brains don’t mix. Uy balanced her nursing studies at Velez College with the pressures of the pageant stage, eventually ranking 9th in the May 2024 PNLE.
Uy’s preparation was intense—answering over 1,000 ANKI flashcards daily and attending multiple review center classes. But it wasn’t just academics that defined her journey. Uy bravely shared her struggles with anxiety and how seeking therapy helped her regain control.
"To some, this might be a sign of weakness, but understanding why you feel the way you do and what you can do about it could just be the stepping stones to harnessing your power," Uy shared.
Her story challenges the notion that beauty queens are just about glamour—Uy proved that confidence and intellect can coexist, inspiring future nurses to pursue both personal and professional success.
Turning Childhood Dreams Into Reality
For Bea Sophia Ferrer, a spot in the Top 5 of the PNLE was the result of years of determination. Coming from humble beginnings without private tutors or extensive academic support, Ferrer’s success was fueled by a personal vow made in fifth grade—to keep striving for excellence.
With only two months of preparation, Ferrer doubted her chances of passing. But inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.'s words—"You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step"—she pushed through her doubts and secured one of the highest scores.
"This achievement is not just for me—it’s for my family, my mentors, my friends, and above all, for God," Ferrer said.
Her story proves that success isn’t about perfect conditions—it’s about persistence and faith.
Victory Through Faith and Perseverance
Like Ferrer, Jhanevhie Grabilo also clinched the Top 5 spot in the PNLE with a score of 91%. Grabilo’s journey was filled with self-doubt and sleepless nights, but her unwavering faith carried her through.
"I have no words but gratitude. To our Lord Jesus Christ, who turned my impossible goal into a reality, thank You!" Grabilo shared.
The joy of seeing her family’s pride after the results made every struggle worthwhile.
Lessons from the Topnotchers: More Than Just Intelligence
What do these stories teach us? Success in the PNLE is not just about intelligence or study hours—it’s about resilience, faith, and a strong support system. Whether it’s overcoming financial struggles like Gail, relying on faith like Tabelisma, shattering stereotypes like Uy, fulfilling a lifelong dream like Ferrer, or pushing through self-doubt like Grabilo—these topnotchers prove that success is possible, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Our Congratulations to All the May 2024 PNLE Topnotchers!
What’s your biggest takeaway from these inspiring journeys? Share your thoughts and tag us on our Social Media accounts!
