Defying time, defining dreams: Nanay Isabel’s journey through alternative education at 75
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
CAGWAIT, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — At 75, most people seek comfort and quiet. But for Nanay Isabel Dagsa Salva, comfort came not in resting, but in returning to a dream she once let go.
On July 15, she stood among graduates of the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (ALS) in Cagwait District, proudly completing Junior High School, decades after leaving the classroom behind.
Born on June 18, 1950, and a resident of Purok 3, Bitaugan East, Nanay Isabel grew up in a time when school was far and life’s hardships were all around. With no nearby school in her community, she managed to complete only the second year of high school before taking on the role of a house helper to support her family.
Her journey never really moved away from public service. After marrying and raising six children, two of whom have since passed, she stayed active in her barangay, serving as a barangay health worker and purok official, quietly shaping her community with compassion and dedication.
But even with life’s duties, her love for learning never waned.
“She came to me, still eager, still curious,” said Mark Louei Iroy, ALS teacher in Cagwait, recalling the day Nanay Isabel enrolled. “She answered her worksheets with full effort, and during our sessions, she often connected lessons to real-life situations. Her learning was both academic and deeply personal.”
Though her children were hesitant at first, fearing the 10-month ALS program might be too demanding for their mother, Nanay Isabel proved them wrong with every session she attended. Her classmates supported her, treating her not as an elder out of place, but as an equal, an inspiration.
Even barangay officials took notice of her commitment. They admired her consistent attendance and active participation. Through partnerships with the North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) in Cagwait campus, she even explored basic computer skills and tackled math problems with surprising ease.
“She was curious about everything,” said Iroy. “She wanted to understand, not just pass.”
Nanay Isabel’s story is more than a personal victory. It is a powerful reminder that education has no expiration date, and dreams do not wither with age.
Her achievement is also a testament to the impact of ALS in reaching those once left behind by traditional systems. It reflects the heart of inclusive education, where age, circumstance, or distance no longer hinder the pursuit of learning.
To the youth, to the parents, and to every adult who still holds a forgotten dream, Nanay Isabel said. “It is never too late. All it takes is courage, curiosity, and the will to keep going.”
And she did. With every step onstage, she told the world, “I am 75, and I just graduated.” (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
