89-year-old bar taker dreams of helping the poor fight for justice

Thousands of netizens were inspired by the unwavering determination of a retired colonel who was spotted taking the bar exam at 89 years old.

In a live interview on Unang Hirit, Ibarra Mariano said he wants to become a lawyer so he can continue serving the country, particularly those who couldn't afford to defend themselves.

"At 89, it is my dream ambition to become a lawyer para makatulong ako ng mahihirap sa countryside, sa probinsya, na walang perang pambayad ng abogado," he said.

This is Tatay Ibarra's third time to take the bar, but his drive remains strong.

"Maraming naaapi sa batas dahil sa hirap at walang pera, kaya that inspired me to become a lawyer," he said.

"I can serve the people pro-bono," he added.

It has yet to be determined whether Tatay Ibarra will pass the bar this year, but his determination has already touched many, including his fellow senior Malou Jimenez who shared during the interview that she was far from giving up on her dreams, as well.

"Hindi po hadlang ang edad," said Malou.

"Hindi man natin naabot 'yung mga pangarap natin noong kabataan natin, aba, hanapin natin kung saan ba ako nilagay ng Diyos. Doon po tayo...Enjoy-in po natin kung anong meron tayo, huwag tayong magmaktol," she added.

Dr. Babes Manalo, a consultation liaison psychiatrist, likewise said, "Habang kaya kasi mentally and physically, bakit hindi? Age is just a number, sabi nga nila."

—Margaret Claire Layug/JCB, GMA News