MANILA, Philippines — Makati Mayor Abby Binay has commended a 52-year-old Grade 12 student of the Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino High School for his determination to finish his studies despite his age.
Benjie Estillore is a student in the morning and works as a Transport Network Vehicle Service driver at night.
“I am proud of Estillore’s determination to pursue his education despite his age and the COVID pandemic,” Binay said.
Estillore first registered for the Alternative Learning System offered by the city then enrolled in senior high school.
Binay noted that Estillore was among those who graduated with high honors when he was in Grade 11.
According to Estillore, he was inspired by his wife, who is a teacher at the Rizal Elementary School in Makati, to go back to school.
He expressed his gratitude to the city government for the benefits he has been receiving while studying in Makati.
Estillore called on other mayors to emulate Binay’s leadership style.
“Maraming salamat sa Makati government, kay Mayor Abby Binay. Salamat po sa privilege na ipinagkaloob niyo sa akin. Libre lahat, uniforms, sapatos, medyas, school supplies. Meron din kaming food packs, tumbler at may jacket pa,” he said.
After finishing senior high school, Estillore said he intends to take up a degree in Political Science at the University of Makati.