In the quiet town of Asturias, Cebu, a young man named Robert Dumagan once stood behind grocery aisles, organizing products and stocking shelves, quietly carrying the weight of his family’s hopes on his shoulders. It was honest work, but it was also uncertain. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, the store closed its doors, and with it, Robert’s source of income disappeared. Like many others, he was left unemployed, anxious, and unsure of what to do next.
But unlike many others who waited for things to get better, Robert took action. He had heard of a training center in Balamban that stayed open even during the pandemic—Don Bosco TVET Center Balamban. It was known for its discipline, faith-based formation, and commitment to helping the youth rise from poverty. With the little savings he had, Robert enrolled in the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC II program, hoping to equip himself with the skills to find better opportunities.
His time at Don Bosco was more than just technical training—it was formation of the heart, mind, and soul. The days were structured and purposeful, filled not just with welding practice but also with daily Masses, evening rosaries, spiritual recollections, and confessions. Here, Robert learned more than welding; he learned discipline, leadership, time management, critical thinking, empathy, and resilience. These values were not taught in a classroom alone—they were lived in the community of trainees, instructors, and Salesian mentors who treated each other like family.
Robert remembers how simple moments, like eating together and making sure no one went hungry, left lasting impressions on him. At Don Bosco, he found not just training, but a new way of life. It molded him into a better man—responsible, grounded, and filled with a renewed sense of purpose.
After completing his training, Robert did not just look for a job—he answered a calling. With confidence and conviction, he applied to the Philippine Army. The process was grueling, with tests of physical strength, mental endurance, and character. But Robert was prepared. Everything he had learned and lived at Don Bosco had shaped him into someone capable of rising to the challenge. He passed, and was accepted into the prestigious Philippine Army Corps of Engineers.
Now a proud member of the Army Engineers, Robert stands tall—not just as a soldier, but as a builder of hope. He is involved in projects that serve communities across the country—constructing roads, rebuilding structures after disasters, and supporting peace and development efforts. With every mission, he carries the name of Don Bosco in his heart. “Isa sa stepping stone ko ang Don Bosco bago ako nag-apply bilang sundalo,” he shares. “Malaking tulong sa akin ang Don Bosco. Kahit kailan, palagi ko itong daladala—nakaukit sa puso at isipan ko.”
His story is a living testimony to the vision and mission of Don Bosco TVET Center Balamban—to form the young, especially the poor, into skilled, God-fearing, and socially responsible citizens. Robert embodies this mission. From a humble grocery worker in a time of crisis, he has become a disciplined soldier and a nation builder. His transformation proves that when faith and formation come together, dreams not only take flight—they serve the country.
“Hindi madaling makamit ang pangarap,” he says. “Pero nandiyan ang Diyos na araw-araw gumagabay. Manalig lang palagi.” Indeed, Robert’s road from aisles to the Army is paved with faith, forged in discipline, and driven by the desire to serve.