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Jeremie Anderson Kiang Lua, a distinguished alumnus of Mountain View College (MVC), has achieved an extraordinary feat by ranking second nationwide in the Medical Technologists Licensure Examination (MTLE), held on August 6 and 7, 2024. Lua earned an impressive score of 91.50%, underscoring his unwavering dedication and academic excellence.

The Board of Medical Technology administered the Medical Technologists Licensure Examination in various testing centers throughout the National Capital Region (NCR), Baguio, Cebu, and Davao in August 2024, and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced that 3,872 out of 5,574 examinees successfully passed. Lua’s exceptional examination places him among the top achievers in this rigorous examination in the country.

Lua’s success is a reflection of his consistent hard work and dedication throughout his academic journey. A 2023 graduate of MVC’s School of Medical Technology, Lua was recognized for his outstanding achievements, including being named Summa Cum Laude—the first in the department since 2016. During his graduation, he received several honors, such as the Philippine Association of Schools of Medical Technology and Public Health (PASMETH) Award for the highest GPA in his batch, the departmental honor award, and the Excellence in Clinical Performance Award for his exceptional performance during his internship.

Beyond his academic achievements, Lua has also been a supportive leader and a positive influence among his peers. He quietly set an exemplary example and demonstrated a sincere desire to help others while serving as president of his batch during their internship year. Lua’s humility and readiness to help earned him the respect of both his classmates and teachers. One of his former instructors noted, “Jeremie is one of the most diligent yet humble students I have taught so far.”

Born into a third-generation Chinese family in Davao, Lua is the second of three siblings. His family’s roots trace back to Fujian province in China. Growing up in a nurturing environment, Lua was encouraged to explore his talents and develop his intellectual abilities from an early age. His mother fondly recalls him solving math problems at the age of three, showing an early interest in learning and leadership.

Lua’s academic journey wasn’t without challenges. Initially struggling with subjects like Filipino and Chinese, he found his stride in Grade 8 and began to excel in his studies. His hard work led to him graduating high school with the highest honors. Fluent in four languages—English, Chinese, Filipino, and Cebuano—Lua is also learning Hiligaynon as he continues to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor.

Currently enrolled as a state scholar at West Visayas State University (WVSU), Lua continues to excel academically. He ranked first in his first-year class for the 2023-2024 school year and topped the Achievement Examination at WVSU, further demonstrating his commitment to his studies.

Lua's Seventh-day Adventist faith has had a significant impact on his journey. Throughout his academic life, Lua has sought to align his goals with his spiritual values, often finding strength in prayer and guidance in Scripture. His dedication to both his studies and his faith is evident in how he approaches challenges and opportunities. Lua believes that his success is not just a result of his efforts but a blessing from God, who has been his source of strength and wisdom.

For Lua’s mother, his success goes beyond academic accolades; it’s about the person he has become. She encourages other parents to give their children room to grow and to focus on their spiritual development alongside their education. “Success isn’t just about what they achieve in life, but about who they are as a person and how they relate to others,” she says. “Especially for those aspiring to be doctors—being a doctor isn’t about earning money; it’s about being a great physician, just as Jesus was.”

Lua’s classmates also recognize his achievements, affectionately referring to the “Lua Review Center,” where he generously shared his knowledge to help others prepare for exams. “He’s not our summa cum laude for nothing,” one classmate remarks, “and I always knew he would excel in the MTLE. He truly deserves it.”

Jeremie Anderson Kiang Lua’s story is one of dedication, humility, and faith. His accomplishments reflect a life lived with purpose and a commitment to uplifting others. As he continues on his path toward becoming a doctor, Lua exemplifies what can be achieved when academic excellence is paired with a heart for service, guided by faith. Lua remains committed to using his talents to serve others, following the example of Christ, the Great Physician.

Mennen Pearl Caballero-Talibong, Editor, Hilltop Flashes