(PIA) -- In the crack of dawn, Marites Vister begins her day, lifting and transporting goods using a cart at the Baguio City Public Market.

At 57, Vister continues to work as a porter or "komboy," a term for porters/haulers in the local market, serving as delivery personnel  transporting fresh vegetables and fruits from stall to stall, or from the station  to the  market. 

A mother of seven, Vister remains steadfast in providing for her family.

“Pinatuloy ko na nagkomboy, ‘gang mairaos ko ‘yung araw araw, ‘gang baon ng mga anak ko, pamasahe. Tapos nun, hindi ko na namalayan na nasa high school na sila, nagtatapos na sila,” she shared.

[I continued being a porter until I was able to provide for our everyday needs, including the baon and fare of my children. I then realized they are already in high school, they were already graduating.]

“Hindi kami nahirapan sa kanila dahil elementary pa lang hanggang sa magtapos ng high school, scholar sila,” she shared.

[We did not have much difficulty with them because from elementary until  high school, they were scholars.]

Some of her children were able to finish their studies through scholarships. In fact, one of them graduated as a cum laude. Three are still in high school. Four of her children have their own families already.

Her  husband's illness has added financial strain to the family. But Vister is resolute that while she still can, she will continue to work as a porter, not just for her children but also for her six grandchildren.

Aside  from  being a komboy,  she also sells eco bags to add to her income.

“Halimbawa, wala ng lumapit sa akin, ‘yun, nakabitbit ako ng maghapon ng gan’on [eco bag], pandagdag,” she added.

[When no one needs  my service, I  sell eco bags for additional income.]

Being a woman in a  male-dominated 'komboy' workplace comes with its own set of struggles, including judgment and criticism from some people.

But despite the challenges, she remains strong and resilient.

“Laging sinasabi na hindi ko kaya kasi payat nga ako eh, natatakot sila. Sabi ng mga datihan dito, na nakikita sa akin ‘Malakas nga eh! Daig pa niya ‘yong may matataba, ‘yong may katawan," Vister shared.

[They said I could not do it since I am skinny. But others said, 'she's strong compared to those who have a good body built.]

Her story of  hard work, perseverance, determination, and resilience serves as an inspiration not only to her colleagues in the market, but to women everywhere. (JDP/DEG-PIA CAR with Hershey Mae Vallo, SLU Intern) (Photos: SLU Interns)