NEWS

LOW VISION, HIGH AMBITION

How Cabugao’s Pride Von Joshua Vallejo

Sees Beyond Sight

Low vision might blur the world around him, but it has never dimmed the clarity of Von Joshua C. Vallejo’s dreams. This Grade 7 learner from Cabugao Integrated School and residing at Quezon, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, shows that even when the eyes see less, ambition can see far beyond. Von Joshua’s journey is a testament to how determination, courage, and relentless effort can turn obstacles into stepping stones toward greatness.

Blurred from Birth

Von Joshua’s story begins with his family, where low vision runs through generations. Of the three siblings, only the second child was born with normal eyesight; Von Joshua and the eldest sibling inherited the condition from their parents. Growing up, he quickly realized that his eyes saw the world differently from most people around him. Simple tasks, like reading or recognizing faces from afar, required extra effort and attention. 

“I’ve always known that my eyes see; however, we didn’t have the money for treatments or special glasses, so I had to learn how to manage on my own,” he recalled.

Life in a family where low vision was common shaped Von Joshua’s early years. Household routines, schoolwork, and even playing outside required him to adapt, often relying on memory, touch, and sound. 

“Sometimes it was frustrating, especially seeing my sibling do things I struggled with, but I learned to find my own ways,” he shared. 

Being part of a family where low vision was the norm instilled in Von Joshua both humility and resilience. He learned early that while his eyes were different, his dreams and ambition could be just as clear and bright as anyone else’s. 

“I may see less than others, but I’ve learned to see possibilities in every challenge,” he said. 

Eyes on the Goals

For him, ambition is never blurred. From an early age, he dreamed of serving his community as a police officer.

“I want to become a police officer one day. Even if I have low vision, I know I can still make a difference if I work hard and stay focused,” he shared.

His determination drives him both on the field and in life, proving that a clear goal comes from the heart, not just the eyes.

In addition, sports have always been central to his journey, with basketball, shot put, long jump, and even the 100-meter run fueling his discipline and resilience. Every practice session and competition for him is a step toward realizing his dreams.

“When I compete, I remind myself that my goals are limitless,” he emphasized. 

Truly, his eyes are always set on the horizon. For him, being an athlete and a police officer are not separate dreams; they are intertwined paths of service, courage, and excellence. 

“I approach each day with the mindset that challenges are not obstacles, but opportunities to sharpen my skills, build my character, and move me closer to the life I envision,” he exclaimed. 

Sight of Success Stories

More than straps of medals, his journey in sports is redefining his potential and existence. 

“I’ve always loved sports, especially basketball, but track and field taught me that focus and heart matter more than perfect eyesight. Every practice, early morning, and extra effort became a lesson in discipline and self-belief,” he shared.

His achievements in competitions speak volumes about his determination. Specifically, he won two silver medals, one in the long jump and another in the 100-meter run in Paragames during the 2025 R1AA held in Bacnotan, La Union. 

“Those medals are my reminders that challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities to grow stronger,” he said. 

In 2026 R1AA, his relentless training and focus paid off with gold in shot put and silver in long jump. 

“Every jump, throw, and sprint teach me patience and perseverance,” Von Joshua says.

Seen Through a Coach’s Eyes

To Ma’am Jea Jemimah F. Galano, Von Joshua’s coach, he is a lesson in resilience, determination, and heart. 

“Every day, he pushes himself further than anyone expects. His discipline, focus, and courage inspire not just me, but everyone around him.” 

From early morning training sessions to competitions, Coach Galano has witnessed firsthand how his perseverance turns challenges into victories, both on and off the field.

Moreover, she recalled moments when others might have been discouraged by setbacks, yet Von Joshua always approached obstacles as opportunities. 

“Even when things were difficult, he never gave up. He has a clarity of purpose that goes beyond sight. He sees his goals with his heart, and that’s what makes him extraordinary,” she remarked. 

The Power of Inner Vision

Categorized under the T12 classification for learners with low vision, Von Joshua has proven that limitations are often just challenges waiting to be overcome. Beyond sports, he is industrious and responsible, often seeking part-time jobs to support himself, a rare quality in someone so young. 

“Even if I cannot see everything clearly, I know I can reach my goals if I keep working hard. I want to become a police officer one day, and I know that all the training and sacrifices now will help me get there,” he shared.

Von Joshua’s story is a lesson in perseverance, humility, and vision, proving that obstacles do not limit ambition. Every jump, throw, and challenge he faces becomes a step toward achieving his dreams.

“In sports, as in life, what matters most is heart. I may have low vision, but my ambition sees farther than anyone can imagine,” he concluded.

In Von Joshua’s life, low vision is merely a condition; high ambition is his true reality. Indeed, seeing less with the eyes does not mean seeing less with the heart and that the clearest vision often comes from within.

via Dharen- Jake R. Garcia & R1AA Media Team