52-Year-Old Architect Earns 4 PRC Licenses Through Self-Review
Many people believe that earning a professional license becomes more difficult as they grow older. However, one architect from Marawi City has proven that age is not a barrier to learning and success. At 52 years old, Abulkhair Pandapatan Ali achieved a remarkable milestone by earning 4 PRC licenses through self-review while balancing work, family responsibilities, and lifelong learning. His inspiring journey has captured the attention of many Filipinos and serves as a reminder that dreams can still be achieved regardless of age.
Architect with 4 PRC Licenses
The journey of Abulkhair Pandapatan Ali began when he passed the Architect Licensure Examination in January 2020 at the age of 46. Instead of stopping there, he continued pursuing additional professional credentials. He later passed the Master Plumber Licensure Examination in 2022, the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers in 2024, and the Environmental Planner Licensure Examination in 2026. What made his achievement even more impressive was that he accomplished everything without enrolling in any review center. His determination eventually led him to earn 4 PRC licenses within just six years.
A Lifelong Learner Who Refused to Quit
Ali described himself as someone who believes education has no age limit. In an interview, he shared the philosophy that guided him throughout his journey:
“I am a lifelong learner who believes education has no age limit.”
His passion for learning was inspired by his belief that knowledge should be pursued throughout life. Even after building a career, raising a family, and managing various responsibilities, he never stopped seeking opportunities to grow. His story demonstrates that earning 4 PRC licenses was not simply about collecting titles but about fulfilling a lifelong commitment to education.
Overcoming Childhood Challenges
Long before his professional success, Ali faced personal struggles during his younger years. Because he was accelerated a grade early in life, he experienced bullying from classmates who mocked his height and excluded him from activities. Instead of allowing those experiences to discourage him, he focused on improving himself through education and perseverance. He eventually earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Cagayan de Oro College in 1994 despite financial difficulties. Those early challenges helped shape the determination that would later lead him to earn 4 PRC licenses.
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The Challenge of Self-Review
One of the most remarkable aspects of Ali’s journey was his commitment to self-review. Unlike many examinees who enroll in review centers, he relied entirely on books, discipline, and personal study schedules.
Speaking about the challenge, he said:
“With 100 percent self-review, the hardest part is having no one to ask except your books.”
He added:
“No one guides you, you don’t get tips on what might come out in the exam, and there are no mock exams to assess your readiness.”
To overcome these obstacles, he developed a strict study routine and carefully managed his time. His strategy proved successful as he continued adding more credentials to his growing list of achievements.
Balancing Family, Work, and Education
Ali’s success did not come without sacrifices. He worked full-time, raised four children, and even pursued law studies at one point while managing family responsibilities. Eventually, he chose to prioritize his family while continuing his educational journey whenever opportunities arose. He later completed a master’s in management with a major in environmental planning in 2024. Beyond his own achievements, he also takes pride in the accomplishments of his children, who have excelled in nursing, engineering, hospitality, and nutrition studies. His story proves that earning multiple licenses is possible even while balancing family and professional obligations.
His Message to Dreamers
Today, Abulkhair Pandapatan Ali serves at Mindanao State University and hopes to inspire others who feel limited by age, failure, or difficult circumstances.
He shared this powerful advice:
“Never lose hope because nobody is born dumb; it all depends on how we use the mind God gave us.”
He also reminded aspiring professionals:
“It is never too late to pursue your dreams because neither age, capability, nor time can hinder you from achieving your ambition.”
His journey has become a powerful example of perseverance and lifelong learning.
Success is not defined by age
The story of Abulkhair Pandapatan Ali shows that success is not defined by age but by determination and persistence. Through discipline, faith, and self-belief, he managed to earn 4 PRC licenses while working full-time and supporting his family. His achievements inspire Filipinos to continue learning and pursuing their goals regardless of life’s challenges. More importantly, his story reminds people that personal growth does not stop after graduation or a single professional success. As his journey demonstrates, it is never too late to chase new dreams and achieve extraordinary milestones.
