Maria is currently at level 3 at the RYE English School in Cawayan.

Maria lives with her mother and 4 brothers and sisters. Her siblings are aged from 7 years old to 16 years old. They live in a tiny hut at the top of a very hard and steep climb. The path is mainly rocks and mud, when it rains the path is very dangerous and slippery. The path's condition means that the 'walk' that she does at least 4 times a day is more of a climb.

Maria's mother is deaf and can only use signs with her hands to communicate, as she has never been taught sign language either. Maria's Father left 3 years ago and has not returned since, he does not support the family financially. Maria's mother takes 'maid work' when she can, however the work is very seldom. Farming is their only source of income. Maria's Aunt helps with the family as she is a spinster and her daughter died many years ago.

Maria's favorite subject is Maths and she would like to become a nurse. Her mother wants Maria to finish her studies to enable her to be educated and get a good job.

Even after all of the family's bad fortune the smiles on their faces never fades!