In 1975, after high school, I was awarded several college scholarships in Manila. However, I chose to study at Ateneo de Davao.  My Alma Mater was one of three colleges run by the Society of Jesus (SJ) in three very strategic centers in Mindanao: Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Zamboanga. It was the college of choice for most of the local elite – if they didn’t go to Manila for college, they went to Ateneo de Davao.  I would miss my hometown of Padada, but Davao City was close enough. If I had transport money, I could always go home. Also, my elder sister was staying in Davao, so I planned to stay with her and her family to save on board and lodging costs.