69-year-old viral lola pursues her dream of becoming a journalist

MANILA, Philippines – Age may be just a number, but for 69-year-old Lolita Escal, it is certainly not a limit to learning, dreaming, and starting anew.

Lola Lolita from Rizal recently inspired netizens after photos of her taking a college entrance examination went viral.

Photo courtesy: DepEd Philippines

What made the moment even more remarkable was that she had already completed her Senior High School education after beginning her academic journey through the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

According to DepEd Philippines, Escal enrolled as an ALS learner in 2019, determined to continue her education despite being well beyond the traditional school age.

Rather than stopping after completing ALS and Senior High School, she took another bold step—entering college to pursue her dream of becoming a journalist.

Today, she is a third-year AB Journalism student at the University of Rizal System in Angono, proving that the desire to learn can remain strong regardless of age.

Her journey is especially inspiring because she chose a field that demands curiosity, communication skills, and a deep interest in people and their stories.

While many people her age may already be enjoying retirement, Escal continues to attend classes and work toward a profession she dreams of pursuing.

Her story also highlights the opportunities provided by alternative education. Through ALS, she was able to return to the classroom and continue her studies, eventually opening a path toward higher education.

Photo courtesy: DepEd Philippines

From an ALS learner in 2019 to a college student years later, Escal's journey shows that education does not have an expiration date.

Her viral moment may have started with a college entrance exam, but her story goes far beyond a photograph. It is a reminder that dreams do not have an age limit—and sometimes, the courage to begin again is already a victory.

“Ang edad ko noong nag-enroll ako sa ALS, nasa 63. Ang maganda sa ALS, magkakaiba man kayo ng lebel, sabay-sabay umaangat,” she said.

At 69, Lola Lolita is still learning, still dreaming, and still writing the next chapter of her life.

— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express