A SEPTUAGENARIAN from Muabog, Tabogon, Cebu finished Senior High School through the Alternative Learning System program of the Department of Education.

Carlos Saladaga, 72, took the General Academic Strand at the Daantabogon National High School.

Saladaga shared that he was criticized for pursuing his education because of his age but he ignored statements of disapproval.

“[Translated in English] I have peers before, and among them, I was the only one who didn’t go to school,” he said. “One thing I also realized while working is that it would have been better if I had access to education.”

He advised the youth to pursue their education to achieve their dreams.

“[Translated in English] I want the youth to see that it is never too late to educate ourselves. I went to school even if I am old. The teens are even more capable because they are still young and can still work. Also they can use whatever they learned at school for their future,” he said.

Lymar Cueva, ALS teacher in junior high school, said that Saladaga was eager to learn and was active in class activities.

“He is a hardworking learner, always eager to learn and expand his knowledge. He is always active during our class activities, and if he has any confusion about our discussions, he never hesitates to ask me,” Cueva said.