MANILA, Philippines — Former actress Marjorie Barretto graduated Tuesday from the Philippine Women’s University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Arts at the age of 51.
“At 51 years old, I finally wore this cap and gown. For years, finishing college was a dream tucked away — paused for show business, raising children, public service, business, and building a life,” Barretto wrote in an Instagram post as she shared her graduation photos.
“But God never forgot. In His perfect time, He gave me the courage to return, the strength to push through, and the joy of crossing this finish line,” she added.
She called the moment “so surreal” as her children attended the ceremony, taking photos, giving flowers, and handing her gifts.
Barretto also credited her friend Ruffa Gutierrez for inspiring her to return to school.
“I want to thank Philippine Women’s University @mypwu_official for opening your doors and making this chapter possible. I also want to thank my dear friend @iloveruffag for starting this journey for so many of us — she graduated first, lovingly encouraged me to go back to college, and always reminded me that I could do it,” she said.
“To my loved ones who inspired me, pushed me, and talked me out of my panic and anxieties — thank you from the bottom of my heart. And to those my age who still carry dreams in their hearts: it’s never too late, and you are never too old, to realize the dreams God placed in you,” he post ended.
Celebrity friends congratulated Barretto in the comments section, including Aika and Jill Robredo, Melai Cantiveros, Raymond Gutierrez, Mariel Padilla, Coney Reyes, Arlene Muhlach, and Jackie Forster.
Her children also expressed their pride online.
“So proud of you mom,” daughter Julia wrote.
“You inspire me. Congratulations, Mommy! So so proud of you,” said Dani in an Instagram story.
Claudia added, “Mom so proud of you! Proof that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.”
Her son Leon, who is set to graduate from the University of Asia and the Pacific this month, posted, “My forever inspiration. So proud of you, mom, for finishing college. It’s never too late indeed.”
In a separate post featuring photos of him and his mother in graduation caps and gowns, Leon wrote, “Not a lot of people can say they graduated college the same year as their mom. It’s really never too late — congratulations, mom! Truly an inspiration to my siblings and me #2025graduates.”