Against all odds, former inmate Daniel earned four PRC engineering licenses while behind bars, proving that perseverance and determination can turn even the darkest chapters into stories of triumph and redemption.
Valencia City, Bukidnon – Daniel, a former inmate, has emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience after successfully obtaining four Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) licenses in engineering, all while serving time behind bars. His story, a testament to the power of perseverance, has captured the hearts of many and serves as an inspiration to those facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Daniel shared his journey of downfall and redemption. Once a Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholar, a consistent Dean’s Lister, and a celebrated “Quizzer” and “Math Wizard,” Daniel’s life took an unexpected turn when he found himself incarcerated due to a legal battle.
“I had a smooth life before because I grew up in a Christian community,” he recounted, reflecting on the abrupt shift in his path. “When I was imprisoned, I felt hopeless. Despite being a good kid, I thought my ending would be in prison. Many people were disappointed, but I persevered.”
Despite his circumstances, Daniel was granted the rare opportunity to complete his final semester at Central Mindanao University and work on his thesis while incarcerated. He admitted that his grades suffered, preventing him from graduating with Latin honors, but he never lost his resolve. “I studied every day, even with the noise and distractions around me,” Daniel explained. “I knew that education was my only way out, my only way to prove that I was more than just my mistakes.”
Daniel’s hard work paid off when he not only completed his degree but also passed the rigorous PRC licensure exams in multiple engineering fields. His achievement is a powerful reminder that transformation and success are possible, regardless of one’s past or present circumstances. Daniel now hopes to use his licenses to contribute positively to society and inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter how difficult the journey may seem.
What began as a story of downfall has transformed into one of triumph. Daniel, once behind bars, has emerged as a symbol of perseverance and faith after earning four Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) licenses in engineering—all while navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.
“From incarceration to inspiration,” Daniel reflected. “I finished my engineering degree inside a jail cell, worked on my thesis under the hardest circumstances, and never stopped believing.”
After nearly two years in prison, freedom greeted him with bittersweet news: the death of his father from stage 4 colon cancer—just a week after his release. Instead of succumbing to despair, Daniel chose to honor his father’s memory and their shared dreams. He bravely registered for both the 2021 licensure exams for Electrical Engineers and Master Electricians, despite having no review classes or formal preparation.
“The reason I filed for two exams,” he recalled, “was that if I couldn’t pass the first, the other would give me hope. But both were difficult. When I got home, I told my mom, ‘Ma, whether I become an engineer or not, I’m still your son.’”
Against all odds—and with what he calls God’s grace—Daniel passed both examinations. His journey did not stop there. In 2023, he became a Registered Master Plumber, and by 2024, a Certified Plant Mechanic—solidifying his place among the country’s most resilient and accomplished engineers.
Today, Daniel serves as an Electrical Engineer II at a government agency, where his dedication and skill continue to shine. Beyond his professional achievements, he now inspires others as a sought-after speaker at graduations and engineering events.
To aspiring board takers and dreamers facing hardship, his advice is simple yet profound:
“Just trust God’s timeline.”
Daniel’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest places, hope and determination can illuminate the path to greatness.
From surviving incarceration to conquering four Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) licensure exams, Engineer Daniel Villamor Quisa-ot now dares to dream even bigger—bringing his extraordinary life story to film.
“Even if it feels like reaching for the moon, my goal is to have a movie about my real-life story, with me as the actor, to inspire others,” Daniel shared with a hopeful smile.
Daniel’s gratitude runs deep. From finally owning a home and a vehicle to being invited as a motivational speaker, he sees every blessing as proof of God’s perfect timing. “God’s timing is always perfect,” he emphasized. “The road to success isn’t always straight, but it’s always worth it when you keep pushing.”
His journey from a jail cell to a government engineering post has already inspired countless Filipinos. But Daniel believes sharing his struggles and victories on a wider stage could give hope to those who feel trapped by their circumstances.
Currently serving as an Electrical Engineer II at a government agency, Daniel has earned not one but four prestigious PRC licenses—a feat few achieve even under the best conditions:
- Registered Electrical Engineer
- Registered Master Electrician
- Registered Master Plumber
- Certified Plant Mechanic
Daniel’s story is more than a tale of perseverance—it’s a living testament that resilience, faith, and unwavering determination can transform even the darkest chapters into a source of light for others. And if his dream of a film comes true, it could inspire millions to believe that no dream is too far-fetched when guided by hope and hard work.