The province of Ilocos Norte on Tuesday recognized its over 83,000 senior citizens for their legacy and contributions to nation-building, vowing their inclusion to various programs and activities of the local government.
As culmination of the Elderly Week celebration, hundreds of senior citizens gathered at the Laoag City Centennial Arena for a day of entertainment, showcasing their talents and featuring the grand coronation of the 2025 Gwapong Lolo and Gandang Lola, complete with royal court, escorts and muses.
In her short speech, Ilocos Norte Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos paid tribute to her “dabarkads” for their presence and active participation during the Elderly Week celebration, with has the theme “Embracing Age: Living a Life with Dignity and Purpose.”
“We have given so much of our lives for our children, for our communities, and for our province. Today, we come together to celebrate the lifelong contributions of our fellow elderly that continue to inspire the younger generations of Ilocanos,” she said.
As governor, Araneta-Marcos assured the elderly that the provincial government will continue to uphold their welfare, dignity and participation to various programs and activities.
The Elderly Filipino Week is celebrated annually pursuant to Proclamation No. 470, signed on Sept. 26, 1994 by then-President Fidel V. Ramos.
On top of receiving monthly social pension, indigent senior citizens in the province continue to receive medical and burial assistance from the provincial government through Provincial Ordinance No. 2018-10-063.
Through this ordinance, a qualified beneficiary is entitled to a minimum of PHP5,000 in the event of death and PHP3,000 for medical expenses.
The province is also open to hiring interested senior citizens as museum guides in government-managed museums to share their expertise in history and culture.
Through the National Commission on Senior Citizens, various service caravans are also offered to the elderly ranging from medical consultations, vaccinations, and wellness activities, including livelihood assistance, legal counseling, recreational opportunities and disaster preparedness training, among others. (PNA)