Never too late to learn for 2 septuagenarians

Tatay Albes, 78, and Nanay Sally, 79, have proven true the saying that it’s never too late to learn.

Both recently marched proudly to receive their hard-earned diplomas—a bachelor’s degree in political science majoring in local government administration from the city-run University of Makati for Armando Albes Sr. and a junior high school certificate from Fort Bonifacio High School for Salvacion Nacario.

The two, both residents of West Rembo village in Makati City, marched in graduation rites held earlier this month.

DENR employee

“I really want to finish a degree because it’s my dream. And I want to help our country,” said Albes, an employee of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for the past 25 years. He urged the youth to remain enthusiastic and contribute to nation-building.

Albes finished his course under the Executive Program of the University of Makati’s College of Governance and Public Policy.

Despite the difficulty of keeping up with the lectures and assignments at his age, Albes persevered.

Nacario, a soldier’s widow, said she had quit high school to raise a family.

She said she dreamed of ultimately earning a college degree one day and managing her own business.

Nacario attended the Alternative Learning System for three years before she was endorsed to the open high school program.

“Instead of gambling or gossiping, I’d rather study to add to my knowledge,” Nacario said.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay expressed admiration for the septuagenarian graduates.

“I salute Tatay Albes and Nanay Sally for having defied all odds to achieve their dreams through sheer willpower and single-minded perseverance,” Binay said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Your struggles and subsequent success exemplify the priceless value of education. You have given people, particularly the youth, great motivation to be conscientious in their studies,” she said.