BONTOC, Mountain Province – The province celebrated the Elderly Filipino Week through a talent competition held at the provincial multipurpose hall recently.
Senior citizens from Tadian emerged as the champion with their dance number to the tune Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.” In second place was the group from Natonin followed by Barlig.
“The elders are as talented as the youth nowadays. What the young people can do, the senior citizens can also do,” Gov. Bonifacio P. Lacwasan Jr. said.
He cited three points why the older people should be proud of themselves and be happier: senior citizens have better coping mechanisms, have the drive to make communities better, and have all the time for their families and loved ones.
“Senior citizens have more reasons to be proud of themselves and feel happier than the younger generations. First, they are happier because they have better coping abilities. Older people have better control of their emotions. This means they face problems without bias. Second, they tend to focus more on how to make communities better for the coming generation. They tend to attend more to programs and volunteer their efforts for the community. Third, they have the sense of pride that comes from their accomplishments. They are contented from simple accomplishments,” Lacwasan said.
The event with the theme “Older Persons: Resilience in Nation Building” was organized by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in support to Proclamation 470 which declares every first week of October as Linggo ng Katandaang Filipino. PSWD Officer Miguela Angwani said the government recognizes the contributions of senior citizens to nation building. As essential members of society who need help and protection, their well-being is emphasized to live productive and happy lives. – Valerie Taguba
