In many Filipino households, academic excellence is seen as the golden ticket to a better future. From the time we’re little, we’re told:

“Mag-aral kang mabuti, yan lang ang puhunan mo sa buhay.”“Top 1 ka ulit ha — para kay mama at papa.”“Walang cellphone pag mababa ang grades.”

Sound familiar?

These words come from a place of love. Our parents, many of whom had fewer opportunities, believe that education is the way up and out. But in the process, school pressure and academic anxiety have become an emotional burden for many Filipino students.

Let’s talk about that — and more importantly, let’s talk about why your grades don’t define your worth.