PORAC, Pampanga — In a moment filled with pride and emotion, 25-year-old Kenneth Calma, a production employee at Mekeni Food Corporation, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Pampanga State University last August 12. But behind the medal and the applause is a story of grit, sacrifice, and unwavering love for family.
For Kenneth, earning a college diploma was not just a personal dream— it was also the dream of his entire family. Born and raised in Balubad, Porac, he is the son of Rosito and Reyna Calma, a barangay tanod and a devoted housewife. Growing up in a household with eight siblings, life was never easy. But it was always filled with hope.
Kenneth’s siblings worked tirelessly to support the family. Linuel and Genesis served as house boys for Mekeni’s Executive Officers, Lito and Adrian Garcia. Merwin worked in the warehouse, while Jennica and Jivon joined the packaging crew. His brother Rosito, with the help of the Garcia family, graduated with a degree in Accountancy from Holy Angel University and became the family’s breadwinner, until illness struck. While his twin brother, Kevin, was not able to finish his studies.
At a young age, Kenneth knew that the card he was dealt with was not easy. Yet, he never let that stop him. While still in Grade 12, he began working as an on-call worker at Mekeni, doing everything from sweeping warehouse floors to carrying goods and cleaning homes. He was determined to help, to contribute, and to dream.
In 2020, Kenneth became a regular employee at Mekeni, working as a checker in the packaging section. Then he resigned in 2021 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but he continued part-time work in the warehouse while enrolling at Don Honorio Ventura State University (now Pampanga State University) to pursue a degree in Elementary Education. In 2023, he reapplied and returned to Mekeni as a production worker.
His days were long and his nights even longer. Kenneth worked from 6 PM to 2:30 AM, often extending his shift just to earn a little more for tuition. After a few hours of sleep, he would go to school from 7 AM to 4 PM. The exhaustion was real, he often fell asleep in class, but his teachers understood. He was excelling, despite the odds.
There were moments of doubt, even depression. Kenneth admitted that he initially kept his studies a secret from his supervisor, afraid of losing the job he loved. But he held on, driven by a promise to himself and to his mother, who always dreamed of having a teacher in the family.
With tears in his eyes, Kenneth shared, “Wala po lahat ng ito kung wala yung nanay ko at pamilya ko. Lahat ng ginagawa ko ay para sa kanila. Gusto ko baguhin yung cycle ng buhay namin para mabago ang buhay namin.”
And he did. With years of hard work, sleepless nights, and relentless determination, Kenneth graduated Magna Cum Laude. His achievement is not just his—it belongs to his family, his community, and to Mekeni, which stood by him through it all.
Mekeni played a vital role in Kenneth’s journey—not just as an employer, but as a support system. From the production floor to the executive offices, Kenneth and his siblings found opportunities, mentorship, and encouragement. The company’s culture of compassion and community upliftment was instrumental in helping him pursue his education.
“Sobrang thankful po ako. Kung wala ang Mekeni, baka hindi po ako nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral. Malaking impact po iyon sa buhay ko at tinatanawan ko ng malaking utang na loob ang Mekeni,” he said.
Pruds Garcia, President of Mekeni, shared his thoughts on Kenneth’s achievement,
“Kenneth’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the value of community. At Mekeni, we believe in giving people not just jobs, but opportunities to grow and transform their lives. We are proud to have been part of Kenneth’s journey.”
He added, “Ang tagumpay ni Kenneth ay tagumpay ng bawat Mekeni employee na nangangarap. We celebrate not just his academic success, but the courage it took to pursue it.”
To those who feel like the “last card” who dreams of changing the fate of their family, Kenneth offers this message:
“Kung gusto mo talaga yung isang bagay, paghihirapan mo ‘yon. Habang bata ka, kailangan mag-aral ka. Hindi habang buhay malakas tayo.”
So, if you are reading this and carrying the weight of your dreams and your family’s hopes—keep going. Like Kenneth, you too can turn the tables. You too can rise.
