ONE TOUGH GRANDMA: 64-yr.-old reservist in Isabela finishes BS Criminology

Most people view senior years as the retirement and slowing down phase of life. While this works for some, it does not for others like Lolie Apolonio of Isabela, who keeps dreaming and pursuing greater heights at 64.

Lolie, who is from Echague, Isabela, brought inspiration to many recently as she marched on stage to get her Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, shutting age barriers and showing one can do anything with determination, hard work, and diligence.     

In her interview with Bombo Radyo Cauayan on July 7, Lolie revealed it has always been her dream to join the military service, so she had the chance to train at the Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Upi, Gamu in 1984, she took it. However, she had to put the opportunity to become a soldier on hold as she had to stop her studies to work as a security guard.

Many years passed, the 64-year-old was given another chance to be one with her aspiration when she was encouraged by her soldier grandson to join the Philippine Army Reservist, where she was qualified.

While she was already part of the military service as a reservist, Lolie wanted to have the chance to elevate her rank by completing her college degree. This inspired her to enroll Bachelor of Science in Criminology through the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program where she finally got her much-awaited diploma on June 14, 2025.

The grandma who used to be an athlete when she was younger plans to be a registered Criminologist by taking the board exam.

As for her advice to anyone that comes across her story, she said they should continue pursuing their dreams in life regardless of age and the challenges that come their way.