Lifestyle
Fishermen become millionaires by giving
NEW WASHINGTON, Aklan- A 72-year-old man from New Washington, Aklan, who was once a poor fisherman,ย has earned himself a fortune by giving.
Dr Ruffy Yu told the Boracay Island News Network that he was born and raised in Barangay Tambak, Ne Washington, Aklan, from a family of fishermen. Like many poor people, he learned to fish during his childhood, walked to school for a few kilometers, braving both the heat of the sun and heavy rains.
Yet, despite his being poor, he dared to dream. He pursued nursing in college and took an internship at the St Jude Hospital.
When an opportunityย arose, he dared to apply for work in the United States of America. He was accepted, but still uncertain what the future holds for him.ย He went to the USA despite having a few thousand pesos in his pocket.
While in California, USA, he pursued a doctorate, cementing his passion in the healthcare industry.
Fast forward, Yu has now earned multiple awardsย both at the international level and in the Philippines. His personal feat includes one of the highest Asia Sterlingย Awardee (2024-2025), considering him as the ‘Most prominent Individual in Business and Entrepreneurship.
Back home, he is also recognized as an academic and civic leader, as he served as the vice president of the Aklan State University (ASU) Alumni Federation.
When he was offered to manage the Maria Mercedes Resort in Barangay Malogo, New Washingtonย Aklan, he thought of it not as an enterprise but as a facility where he could be able to help his fellowmen.
“I was inspired when an employee told me a story that they were able to buy a new pair of shoes after receiving their first salary,” Dr Yu said.
He has now built a white mansion in his village, currentlyย known for its best oysters.
The MM Resort is now the widest inland resort in the province of Aklan, complementing the high demand for tourism in Boracayย Island, known as the best beach in the world.
Dr Yu said he has been helping many because he knows the feeling of becoming poor. Because of his generosity, he has become a millionaire apparentlyย to help out more people in need.
