70-year-old in Aparri, Cagayan proudly prepares to graduate from Senior High School

Age is just a number for a 70-year-old, who is looking forward to graduating from Senior High School at the end of the month in Aparri, Cagayan, according to the GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon report of Ian Cruz for "Pusuan na 'Yan" on "State of the Nation."

Hilario Jabines, a loving grandfather and attentive to the needs of his family, was an industrious student and a proud candidate for graduation from Senior High School.

His age may have been a challenge he had to hurdle while studying but this did not stop him from his goal of finishing High School.

He accepted the offer to study under the Alternative Learning System at the Aparri East National High School and was very excited at the opportunity.

After enrolling, Jabines wanted to start his classes right away said ALS teacher Vina Victoria Abadilla.

"Makikita mo talaga 'yung determinasyon niya," she added.

Jabines had to stop schooling and was never able to return to school as he got married and started his family.

With this hard work, he saw all five of his children finish their studies and become professionals.

It was not an easy journey, but he persevered.

"Sabi ko sa kanila, huwag kayo magbu-bully, huwag kayo manghusga dahil ang ginagawa ko para sa pamilya ko," said Jabines. — BAP, GMA Integrated News