From 4Ps to the Bar: The Rise of Atty. Kerth Jay O. Alunan

“I’m a proud product of JRMSU; a proud Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiary. Yes, you heard that right — I’m a 4Ps beneficiary. A once pobre student who had nothing but dreams, grit, and faith. I’m standing here not because I had it easy, but because I refused to quit,” shared Atty. Kerth Jay O. Alunan, CPA, during the 2025 Honors Day held on May 16, 2025, at the Dapitan Cultural and Sports Center.

Currently serving as Private Secretary to the LGU Dapitan, Atty. Alunan graduated Magna Cum Laude from JRMSU and was recognized as the university’s first President’s Lister. He received several accolades, including the Academic Excellence Award, the Vice President Jejomar Binay Leadership Award, and the Senator Manny Villar Excellence Award. Notably, he ranked Top 1 in the Mock Bar Examination at the JRMSU College of Law.

Atty. Alunan’s journey — from his humble beginnings as a 4Ps beneficiary to becoming a distinguished legal professional — exemplifies the transformative power of education. His story stands as an inspiration to the JRMSU community, emphasizing how determination and resilience lead to success.

Reflecting on the challenges he faced, Atty. Alunan shared, “I know what it feels like to feel small — to walk into a classroom and feel invisible; to choose between eating lunch and printing a project; to juggle organization work, academics, family problems, and part-time jobs all in one day. But I also know what it’s like to rise — to hold that diploma, to pass that exam, to make your parents proud, to break cycles, to prove them wrong — better yet, to prove yourself right. So if you’re struggling now, if you’re doubting yourself, let me remind you: you are exactly where you need to be.”

Upholding the ideals of perseverance and grit, Atty. Alunan defied the odds and refused to let poverty define his future. Recalling his earlier years, he said, “Years ago, I was just like many of you. I was a working student from elementary all the way through college. Life wasn’t easy; we didn’t have much. In fact, I was once called ‘poor’ by a professor — not because I couldn’t answer well in class, but because of how I looked. And I have to admit — it stung. In law school, a professor once told me, ‘Mr. Alunan, you will not become a lawyer.’ It wasn’t out of concern — it was because I didn’t have money, and I didn’t have the luxury of time. I had to work to study. I had to study while feeding a family. I could have walked away; I could have believed them. But instead, I studied harder. I cried in silence. I prayed harder. I held on. And despite everything, I graduated Magna Cum Laude. I passed the CPA Licensure Exam. Then, I passed the Bar. Because here’s the truth — no one gets to decide what you can and cannot become except you.”

Despite the many challenges he faced, Atty. Alunan’s unwavering determination enabled him to excel not only in academics but also in leadership. He served as Associate Editor of The State Collegian, President of the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JRMSU Chapter), Chief Commissioner of the Student Electoral Commission, and Vice President of the Federation of Student Organizations at JRMSU. Today, he is an active member of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines.

Exemplifying resilience and integrity, Atty. Kerth Jay O. Alunan, CPA, not only overcame life’s challenges — he thrived in spite of them. His testimony of growth, grit, and grace is a shining example for the JRMSU community, reminding everyone that hardship can be a stepping stone to excellence and success.