A Story of Transformation, Endorsement, and Empowerment
At 26 years old, Harvie Demecina from Brgy. Maao, Bago City, could have been just another young man lost to poverty and passivity. Before finding his way to Don Bosco TVET Center Balamban, Harvie described himself as a ‘tambay’—wandering the streets without direction, without work, and without hope. His days were defined by uncertainty and struggle, while his dreams felt far from reach.
His story took a remarkable turn when Bago City Councilor Jom Somcio recognized his potential and endorsed him to Don Bosco. That single gesture opened the door to a new beginning. It was a moment that changed the trajectory of Harvie’s life forever.
Enrolling in the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC II program in 2022-2023, Harvie brought with him the weight of hardship. Coming from a family with very limited means, he had no employment history and very little confidence in himself. But even with these challenges, his family never wavered in their support. “Kahit mahirap sa amin, nakaya pa rin nila akong suportahan sa kahit maliit na halaga,” he recalled. He knew he had to make their sacrifice worthwhile.
At Don Bosco TVET Center Balamban, Harvie wasn’t only taught how to weld—he was transformed. The formation went beyond technical skills. Through daily Mass, evening rosary, recollections, and confessions, Harvie encountered a community that believed in him and nurtured his faith. He speaks with deep gratitude for the Salesians, Sir Ernie, Sir Tope, and Sir Enting who, through patient mentorship, helped him rediscover purpose and self-worth.
“Dahil sa kanila, nagbago ang aking pag-iisip. Hindi na ako tulad ng dati na tambay lang sa amin,” Harvie shared. At Don Bosco, he also developed essential life skills—discipline, critical thinking, responsibility, and leadership. It was here he learned how to manage his time, budget money, and value teamwork.
Harvie’s dedication bore fruit. He is now employed as an Elevator Installer at International Elevator and Equipment, Inc. From once wandering the streets to now helping build vertical progress in high-rise buildings, Harvie embodies the vision of Don Bosco TVET: forming the young, especially the poor, to become honest citizens, competent workers, and faithful Christians.
“Hindi na ako tulad ng dati na palaboy-laboy lang sa kalye namin,” he said proudly. “Ngayon, natutulungan ko na ang aking pamilya sa ganitong murang edad.” His dream is to one day work abroad—not to escape, but to uplift his family from poverty. “Pangarap ko makaraos sa kahirapan ang aking pamilya at makapag-abroad.”
Harvie’s story is proof that even one opportunity—one recommendation—can make a lasting impact. His message to fellow youth is heartfelt: “Pagbutihin lang po nila at magtyaga sa pag-aaral at pagsasanay—dahil may magandang maidudulot ito sa kinabukasan.”
Indeed, Harvie Demecina is a testament to the power of formation, faith, and opportunity. Don Bosco TVET Center Balamban didn’t just teach him a trade—it sparked a dream, ignited his future, and empowered him to lift others with his story of hope.
