The topnotcher of the February 2025 Mechanical Engineer Licensure Examination (MELE) is now half a million pesos richer after choosing the cash incentive over a brand-new car as a reward for his remarkable achievement.

Nico Anthony Ferenal Tejano from Naga City, Cebu, opted for the P500,000 cash prize instead of a Toyota Wigo as part of his reward for bringing honor to his alma mater, the University of Cebu.

In a Facebook post, the educational institution shared that its owner, Atty. Augusto Go, made the offer to the 23-year-old topnotcher after achieving an impressive 93.5% average score.

In an interview with DYLA Cebu Newsbreak, Nico revealed he was not interested in the car and intended to use the cash prize to support his parents.

He also pointed out that he was accustomed to commuting and did not have a driver’s license since he didn’t know how to drive.

Another University of Cebu graduate, John Rey Bellita Fabre, also made it to the Top 10 and received a P50,000 cash prize from the school.

He said he intends to use the prize money to help his family finish building their house.

In December of last year, the University of Cebu also produced the board topnotcher in the November 2024 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination, Engr. Francis Charles Lauta. #