Campus security guard graduates with distinction from the college he was working at

For the last 17 years, this security guard has worked from dusk to dawn in a college in the Philippines.

Over the weekend, Erwin Macua also proudly graduated from the school he was working at, St. Theresa's College in Cebu City, central Philippines.

According to SunStar Cebu, the 38-year-old has maintained a full course load for four years, with classes from 7.30am to 4pm, and then a long overnight shift from 7pm to 7am.

He's also a family man, with three children.

Macua graduated with distinction, with a degree in General Education.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Macua's inspiring story went viral and was covered extensively by local press.

Students, teachers and parents affectionately call him Kuya Erwin (Brother Erwin), as he watched them enrol as freshmen, and then leave after their graduation.

"Age is not a hindrance, poverty is not a hindrance," Macua told ABS-CBN News.

Macua managed to pay off the fees for his first year in college, and was sponsored by a anonymous donor for the next three years.

Macua plans to sit for further exams, to become a licensed teacher. He said his passion for teaching was ignited from observing the diversity of students in school, and he looks forward to having his own classes in future.

"You can really change lives," he said.