A pensioner was delighted as he finally graduated from highschool despite his old age.

Hilario Jabines, 70, left school in his teens then worked to send his five children to college and university in Aparri province, the Philippines.

When he retired, he helped with taking his grandchildren to class and inquired about an alternative learning system program where he could obtain his middle school diploma.

Footage shows the elderlt man wearing his graduation suit and cap during a pictorial for the ceremony. He held a board that said: ‘Age is not a hindrance in attaining education.'

Teacher Rina Miramonte Bunagan said: ‘When we first met, he was only taking the kids to class. We were surprised when he asked to enrol. He was a living proof that nothing is impossible to those who persevere.

'Nobody is ever too old to learn.'

Poverty is a major challenge that impacts education access and outcomes for many Filipinos. While public elementary and high school education is free, there are still associated costs like transportation, supplies, and uniforms. These indirect costs make schooling unaffordable for very poor families.