Boholano physician licensure exams Top 10 wants to pay it forward

Mark Johnuel Matabilas Duavis, a native of Buenavista town in Bohol province, placed 10th in the October 2022 physician licensure examination. (Photo courtesy of Mark Duavis)

TAGBILARAN CITY — For 31-year-old Mark Johnuel Duavis, who ranked 10th in the October 2022 Physician Licensure Examination, staying in the country to serve Filipinos is a big honor.

For the longest time, he said he wanted to become a physician, but his family could not support him financially.

“Without the help of the Department of Health, the University of Cebu-School of Medicine, and the taxpayers, I would not have realized this dream. Without the scholarship, I could never make it to becoming a doctor. I owe this success to everyone,” said Duavis, who is also a registered nurse.

“I would like to serve the people who made this dream a big reality,” he added.

Duavis, a native of Buenavista town in Bohol province, got an average of 87.08 percent.

Duavis believed it was God’s will that he made it to the top 10.

“Answering the 4th to the 12th subject, I just surrendered everything to Him and allowed Him to work miracles for me. When the results came out, I was surprised. It made me cry. It was something beyond my hands. It was His will and intercession that gave a spot for me in the top 10,” he said.

For the people of Buenavista, Duavis brought pride and honor to the town and the province of Bohol.

“Mark is making history as the first topnotcher in physician licensure examination in Buenavista. He is an inspiration to the young people that constant efforts, patience, and perseverance, coupled with strong determination can bring you success,” said Buenavista Mayor Dave Duallo.

The mayor said the town would give a cash incentive and recognition plaque to Duavis based on a 2014 municipal ordinance.

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