Topnotcher: I did not cheat

CEBU, Philippines - The topnotcher in the recent mechanical engineering board exam defended his accomplishment amid allegations of cheating.

Micah Arceno, a graduate from University of Cebu, said he was well prepared for the board exam, solving at least 100 mathematical problems every night.

Arceno said he did not do anything that would cause people to claim he was cheating during the exam, given by the Board of Mechanical Engineering in September.

“For me, ila na kana because I tried to answer the exams honestly and correctly. I am prepared for my exam and I believed that I did my part,” the 21-year-old Arceno said.

According to him, the examination venue inside a gym in Manila was huge, making him impossible to look at other examinees’ papers.

Arceno said his mentor, Rodel Naval, trained him by giving him 300 questions a day at the start of the review period.

Naval said he was confident that Arceno would pass the exam.

Lawyer Augusto Go of University of Cebu said Arceno showed skills during his early years in the university.

To recognize his achievement, the UC management rewarded Arceno with a brand new car.

“Glorify God, seek balance in everything and study hard. Dili na pwede sila kalimtan para ma-achieve atong goals.” Arceno said.

“Good training produces good outcome,” Arceno added as he thanked his mentors. (FREEMAN)