Eight unsuccessful attempts did not stop a visually impaired government worker from returning to the Civil Service Examination until he finally passed on his ninth try.
Michael John C. Orais, 28, from Maasin City, Southern Leyte, passed the August 11, 2024 Career Service Examination Pen and Paper Test after years of repeated attempts.
“I took the exam eight times before I passed,” Orais said.
Along the way, Orais faced criticism from people who questioned why he continued taking the examination because of his visual impairment.
“I also received different criticisms that I should not pursue taking CSE because of my condition, but I didn’t surrender, and I’m proud to say that ‘I PASSED THE CIVIL SERVICE EXAM’.”
His breakthrough came on his ninth attempt after years of preparation, setbacks and repeated efforts to secure civil service eligibility.
“Through all my prayers, determinations, sacrifices, and hardships, at last I passed,” he said.
Orais said he cried after learning the result and thanked God for what he described as a major blessing.
He also thanked the Civil Service Commission Regional Office VIII for continuing to give him opportunities to take the examination. The CSC said accommodations for PWD examinees, including accessible facilities, helped him continue pursuing his goal.
Orais works as a casual employee at the City Social Welfare and Development Office of the City Government of Maasin. He hopes to advocate for policies supporting persons with disabilities and help create more inclusive opportunities.
His success came after eight unsuccessful attempts and criticism from people who questioned whether he should continue taking the examination because of his visual impairment.
