‘Age is just a number!’ A grandmother who was a product of ALS, graduates college

The usual scene during graduation ceremonies in schools involves parents or guardians attending to witness their children's completion of studies, symbolizing their success and hard work.

However, what if it's the children attending the graduation ceremony... of their parents?

That's the story of Teodora L. Deus, 71 years old, from Sto. Cristo, City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, who graduated from college with a degree in Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher Education.

grandmother who was a product of ALS, graduates college
Photo courtesy: Facebook / Leslie Deus-Irang, Deus Teodora Lorenzo

Her daughter, Leslie D. Irang, a teacher in Indonesia, proudly showcased and shared her mother's photos on social media last July 10, 2022. The commencement exercises of their school were held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex, Pasay City.

During that time, Teodora was 69 years old.

“Waiting for the program to begin 😉,” Leslie said.

“At 69, our mom, Deus Teodora Lorenzo (Nanay Doring), is graduating from College, with a degree in Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher Education.”

According to an interview, because Leslie and her siblings were already working, they collectively contributed to funding their mother's education. Due to her age, their mother completed high school through the Alternative Learning System or ALS. In 2018, she achieved her long-cherished high school diploma.

“6 years ago, she expressed to my sister and me her dream of pursuing her Secondary Education, more than 50 years after her Grade 6 graduation. We supported her!”

“In 2018, she graduated from Secondary School through the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and continued to take up a 4- year course in Education. Now, she is graduating!”

“We are proud of you Nanay! As promised, I am here at the PICC. 😉 Chase your dreams just like what our mom did! Age matters not in terms of success! She is now a teacher just like us, her two daughters!”

Leslie has a heartfelt message for their mother, Nanay Doring.

“To Nanay Doring, thank you for being a great inspiration to all! Indeed, age is just a number! Congratulations po and we love you! To everyone, never give up on your dreams!”

Leslie also conveyed a message to others who can relate to her mother's story.

“Chase your dreams just like what our mom did! Age matters not in terms of success! She is now a teacher just like us, her two daughters!”

After a year and more, The Summit Express inquired about Nanay Doring. Leslie, in response, provided updates.

“Hindi na namin siya pinag-take kasi stressful ‘yon, nagka-problem sa health niya eh, baka lalo ma-stress sabi namin enough na natupad niya na ang dream niya to finish school,” she said.

“Sabi namin pahinga lang siya, huwag na isipin ang LET though gusto niya pero we advised her no need.”

Even if Nanay Doring didn't take the teacher's board exam, what's important is that she is in good health and spirits!

— Richard, The Summit Express



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