π—žπ—”π—£π—₯π—’π—•π—œπ—‘π—¦π—œπ—”π—”π—‘ π——π—˜π—‘π—§π—œπ—¦π—§ 𝗧𝗒𝗣𝗦 𝗕𝗒𝗔π—₯𝗗 π—˜π—«π—”π— 

By: Joy Ann L. Gurtiza, GPC-LUPTO | Photos By: GPC-LUPTO | Date: March 2022


With an average of 83.03%, 24-year-old Dr. Maria Salvacion R. Dacio of Brgy. Central East No. 1 Bangar, La Union was Top 2 among 731 passers of the January/March 2022 Dentist Licensure Examination (DLE). Dr. Dacio is a graduate of the 6-year Doctor of Dental Medicine program at the University of Baguio.

In an interview with the La Union Provincial Tourism Office – Culture and Arts Unit staff, Dr. Dacio admitted that her studious preparation was instrumental as she started reading board exam materials even during lockdown while waiting for her graduation.

β€œDLE has two phases – written and practical exams. We have to prepare for both exams kaya importante ang time management [that’s why time management is important]. Naging advantage talaga β€˜yong two-year postponement of exam [the two-year postponement of the exam became an advantage], more time to review. Pero mahirap din because of the online review class setup, mas mahirap mag-focus [but focusing on online method of review classes was also difficult],” she shared.

For her, reviewing for the examination became a challenge due to the pandemic. Weak signal and slow internet connectivity including three previous postponements of the exams frustrated, but at the same time, challenged her.

Dr. Dacio credits her success to her family and friends who were very supportive of her. For her, hardwork and prayers constantly motivated her to persevere towards her goals. β€œSuccess is when you entrust everything you do to the Lord. I believe that it is all God's plan for me for I know I have my limitations, and because of my perseverance and passion, I succeed,” she emphasized.

She further thanked the Provincial Government of La Union for recognizing this achievement. Eldest of three siblings, Dr. Dacio considers working for the Municipality of Bangar as her father is also a practicing seasoned dentist in their locality.

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