Passi City, Iloilo — A heartwarming gesture by a male student for his female classmate at Passi City National High School has touched many. Julian Maratas, a student from Población Ilawod, Passi City, gave his classmate Gwen Soncio a brand new pair of shoes as a graduation gift.
Maratas’ father is the principal of Gines Viejo Elementary School, while his mother serves as the principal of Passi 1 Elementary School. Meanwhile, Soncio is from Dacal, San Enrique, Iloilo. Her mother works at a sugarcane plantation, while her father sells goods at Lapuz Port in Iloilo City.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Ferlie Joy Manejo-Lanaria, a teacher at Passi City National High School, shared the touching story of Maratas and Soncio, both honor students and classmates in the ABM 12 – Integrity class.
Lanaria recounted that Maratas sent her a message asking for advice on what kind of shoes would be suitable for a female classmate, as he noticed that Soncio did not have any shoes to wear.
Maratas explained that he asked his mother if they had any old shoes to give Soncio, but eventually decided to buy her a brand new pair. He shared that he had seen Soncio struggling with her studies, much like his own parents did, which led him to offer this kind gesture to help her for her upcoming graduation.
Maratas expressed his hope that he and Soncio would graduate together from college one day. He plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, while Soncio aspires to study for a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
Soncio, visibly emotional, expressed her gratitude to Maratas for his kindness. Despite the challenges she faces, she is determined to finish her studies and is hopeful for her future.
This act of generosity has inspired many, demonstrating the power of kindness and the importance of supporting one another, especially in times of need.
