Zambo Sur sexagenarian graduates in college

PAGADIAN CITY – “Age doesn’t matter when it comes to learning” as the adage goes and this 64-year old pedicad driver – Generito Yosores, who is a native of Molave town in Zamboanga del Sur province – graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) Major in English at the Western Mindanao State University-External Studies Unit (WMSU-ESU).

Yosores, who remains unmarried, walked the stage proudly here along with 1,398 graduates from WMSU-ESU Pagadian, Molave, and Aurora campuses. He said poverty and age were never a hindrance in achieving his goal in finishing his dreamed college degree.

Speaking to the Philippine News Agency, Yosores said he first enrolled in an agricultural course, but eventually shifted to BSED Major in English as he wanted to become a teacher.

He dreamed of becoming a professional despite hardships in life, driving his pedicab during daytime and to earn a decent living while attending night classes. When Yosores walked the stage to get his diploma, the audience stood up and clapped their hands and proud of what he has achieved and the inspiration it gives to others who wanted to finish their education.

Feeling elated, Yosores said he completed the degree in four straight years, studying late at night especially during examinations to make sure he will pass all the tests given by his professors. After graduation, Yosores said he wanted to take the next step and that is to look for a job and a wife and raise a family to fulfill his dream. He also urged the youth to finish their studies because this will lead them to a better future. Yosores’ inspiring perseverance and life story has become viral on social media. (Leah Agonoy)

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