CinemaBravo

MANILA, Philippines — Influencer, businessman, and talent manager Wilbert Tolentino has achieved a long-held personal goal: completing his college education at the age of 50.

Tolentino recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Office Administration degree from Philippine Christian University (PCU) as part of the institution’s Batch 2026, marking a milestone that comes decades after he first had to leave school due to difficult circumstances.

For Tolentino, the achievement reflects a belief he has long carried with him: that education can still be pursued regardless of age.

“The truth is, I come from a broken family. At 14 years old, I had to stop studying and start working just to survive,” he shared.

He recalled how financial hardship forced him to enter the workforce early. As a teenager, Tolentino took on various jobs—including working as a helper in a printing press and doing cleaning work—to help cover daily expenses.

“Life was never easy, but I refused to give up,” he said.

Eventually, he worked as an all-around employee at a small grocery store in his community. By the time he was 18, Tolentino decided to take a risk and start his own business despite lacking a college diploma or formal training.

“Being a young entrepreneur without a college degree and proper education was very challenging,” he said.

“I had limited funds, struggled with operational expenses like payroll and rent, and at the same time I was providing for my months-old daughter.”

Instead of discouraging him, those challenges became motivation to push forward.

“But those heavy responsibilities did not break me — they fueled me to work even harder,” he added.

Tolentino said one of the things he values most in his journey as an entrepreneur is the long-standing relationship he has built with the people who work with him. Many of them have been part of his business operations for nearly three decades.

“Through the years, they became more than my staff. They became my business partners, my travel companions, and my family,” he said.

“For almost three decades now, we have stood side by side. I never discriminated them. What I eat, they also eat. What I earn, we celebrate together.”

According to Tolentino, several members of his team also did not finish formal schooling. However, they relied on hard work, determination, and persistence to improve their lives.

Despite his success in business and social media, Tolentino said there was still one dream he wanted to accomplish: graduating from college.

“Now that I have reached my golden years, I have checked almost everything off my bucket list,” he said.

“But one dream remained — to earn my diploma and wear my toga. And now, I’ve finally done it.”

“I firmly believe that age is never a hindrance to learning. It is never too late to finish what you started.”

The milestone also carries deeper meaning for Tolentino because he is raising an eight-year-old son with special needs as a single parent.

“It means showing my son that perseverance, education, and determination can open doors — no matter what obstacles you face,” he said.

Tolentino also addressed younger generations, sharing a message for members of Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

“I hope my story reminds you that success is not about how fast you finish, but how determined you are to keep going.”

“Be diligent. Stay committed. Chase your dreams relentlessly.”

He also expressed gratitude to the individuals who supported him throughout his academic journey.

Among them is Miss Lilibet Amatong, whom he referred to as his “Mommy Teacher” and mentor. He also thanked Teacher Melody Llona, his home study instructor, and Professor Bong Escobedo of the PCU Escobedo Extension for their guidance and patience.

Tolentino likewise acknowledged Mommy Susan Rogacion of Nazareth Institute of Alfonso for her continued support.

He also thanked members of his family, including his brothers William, Wilson, and Willy, as well as their spouses, nieces, nephews, and loved ones.

Tolentino dedicated the achievement to his parents, particularly his 86-year-old mother and his late father.

“This achievement is dedicated to both of you. Everything I have accomplished is because of the values, strength, and love you instilled in me,” he said.

He also shared a message for his son, Willard King Tolentino.

“Being a single father has not always been easy. But I want you to know that with dedication, hard work, and perseverance, everything is possible.”

Tolentino also thanked his supporters, followers, subscribers, and members of his online community who have followed his journey over the years.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart. This milestone is not the end of my journey. I will continue striving for more,” he said.

Looking ahead, Tolentino revealed that he plans to continue his education and pursue a master’s degree in the future.

He also congratulated his fellow graduates, including Geneva Cruz, Rico Almonicar, and Sachzna Laparan, along with the entire Philippine Christian University community.

“Together, we dreamed big and made our mark on the world,” he said.

“Congratulations to all of us. We did it.”