Dr. Xerxes M. Budumo stands as a proud alumnus of Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU). He has made remarkable accomplishments both in the Philippines and abroad. Currently, he is sharing his expertise as an international teacher in Montana, USA. His diverse roles as an educator, researcher, author, content creator, and philanthropist serve as a beacon of inspiration. Throughout his college years, he dedicated himself to his studies and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Human Resource Management from Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) in 2014. According to him, his education at TAU not only helped him learn and gain confidence but also served as a pathway to a significant opportunity when he was hired as an employee of the university. This role enabled him to develop professionally and ultimately transition into an instructor position. He also made a significant impact beyond TAU when he also employed in other esteemed academic institutions throughout his career. His work experiences include serving as a Business Training Supervisor and SPED teacher, and he is now making significant strides as an international teacher in the USA. In a world where knowledge is constantly evolving, Dr. Xerxes stands out for his unwavering commitment to education and personal growth. His belief in lifelong learning has led him to earn an impressive array of multiple degrees and certifications from some of the most esteemed institutions in both the Philippines and the United States. He completed his Master of Business Administration in 2017 and his Doctor of Business Administration in 2021. Additionally, he graduated with a Bachelor of Secondary Education, majoring in Social Studies, in 2021, and a Master of Arts in Education, majoring in Special Education, in 2023. He also earned a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University in the USA in 2024. To take a chance in another country requires a lot of adjustments. However, he emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability: "Moving to the USA and facing the challenges of teaching in a foreign land required me to adapt swiftly and maintain my resilience amid change. These skills have empowered me to overcome obstacles and achieve success in new environments." He emphasizes that his achievement in the Philippines and US is a result of time management and goal setting. “Balancing my roles as a teacher, researcher, author, content creator, and philanthropist required strong time management and the ability to set and achieve clear goals.” In all his roles, his remarkable initiatives have not only developed him professionally but also serve as an inspiration to create a meaningful impact, both in his home country, the Philippines, and in the United States. As a teacher, he holds teaching licenses in multiple states, including Montana, North Dakota, and New Mexico, and has received several recognitions for his contributions to education throughout his career. One of the most recent awards he received was in December 2024, when he was recognized as the Outstanding Educator of the Year by Instabright Publication. As a researcher and author, his passion for research has resulted in the presentation and publication of two research papers at international conferences and in journals. He also co-authored the book Filipino Teachers’ Journey in the USA, which narrates the inspiring experiences of Filipino educators making their mark abroad. As a content creator through his Facebook page, The Filipino Teacher in the USA, he shares his personal experiences, knowledge, and insights to help fellow Filipinos navigate their journey toward securing jobs in the United States. By providing valuable guidance, practical tips, and useful advice, he strives to empower others to achieve their career goals and succeed in the U.S. workforce, as he believes that “’successful people help other people succeed.” As a philanthropist, he founded the Dr. Xerxes Budomo Care Foundation in 2024, which aims to support communities in need. Through his foundation, he has been able to provide financial assistance, donate educational materials, support students in continuing their education —including helping them attend international conferences —and assist families and individuals financially, particularly during and after natural disasters. According to him, “This philanthropic effort is a source of immense pride, as it allows me to give back to society and contribute to the well-being of others. These milestones reflect my passion for education, leadership, and making meaningful contributions to the communities I serve.” This reflects his commitment to making a positive impact in the world. In the midst of multiple roles, he remains dedicated and committed to fulfilling his role as a family man. Blessed with two children, he is deeply grateful for the opportunity to provide a comfortable life for his loved ones. Despite his achievements, he never forgets TAU, saying, “I proudly talk about my alma mater and often share my experiences there, showcasing the strong foundation it provided me in both education and life. I carry TAU’s name with me wherever I go, highlighting how it shaped my journey, especially as an international educator in the USA.” He also added, “Choosing TAU means becoming part of a legacy of excellence and a community that supports you every step of the way. Trust that it will prepare you to reach your dreams and inspire others to do the same.” His story is one of inspiration, and it serves as a call to action for all of us to pursue our own journeys to excel in our chosen fields while uplifting others and fostering positive change.

Tarlac Agricultural University, a treasure chest of excellence and competence, has produced countless successful alumni sparkling throughout history. Some of its finest gems pursued a life abroad, while many stayed in the homeland, triumphed, and created an impactful change in their communities. One of whom is Mr. Peter M. Ong, a proud alumnus who currently pursues a career as a service officer at a network bank and engages actively in community building through his Project CA LINGA, a socio-civic organization he founded in 2018. Peter’s journey to lustrous success began as soon as he stepped into the grounds of Tarlac College of Agriculture (now TAU) in 2008. Carrying with him all his dreams and aspirations, he grinded all the way to one of his biggest milestones of graduating as the class valedictorian with Latin honors and earning his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2012. This humble achievement engraved his name as a significant part of the university’s history of excellence. Eventually, bearing the erudition and experiences he gained, he continued his academic pursuit and managed to earn his master’s degree in Business Administration at Don Honorio Ventura State University in 2022, an achievement that equipped him more greatly to face the professional realm. However, crafting a professional path was not always easy, but Peter is a testament that loyalty is one virtue that cultivates a long-term passion for a chosen career. After resigning from his administrative aide position at the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of the Provincial Government of Tarlac, he obtained a post at the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), where he was able to demonstrate and enrich his leadership prowess and professional excellence. In a span of over a decade, he went from being a cash operations assistant in 2014 to a customer service representative in 2017 to finally reaching his post as an area administrative associate. Presently, Mr. Ong joined another bank as a service officer. Surely, his commitment and perseverance paved the way for his attainments. Apart from his professional persona, Peter also became a philanthropist. Through his Project CA-LINGA, which aspires “to CAre, to Love, to INspire, and to give our Aims,” he was able to help the underserved sectors in improving their way of life by providing assistance of any kind. He does this because he believes that he is called for something noble and of greater purpose, and that is to extend a helping hand and an open heart to people. Truly, Peter is one of TAU’s finest gems, shining with substance and inspiration. He stands as an example of brilliance and resilience, a symbol ever embedded within his name, Peter (meaning “rock” or “stone” in its Greek origin). And just like any diamond polished by friction, Peter was perfected by his own life trials and now radiates as a beacon of hope and inspiration to many, especially to the TAU community.