Zamboangueña Centenarian Shares Basic Secrets to Long Life

According to a 100-year-old woman here, there are basically only two secret keywords to achieve long life: to be healthy and happy.

Mrs. Guadalupe Limbaga shared if anyone wants to reach this age, they should be mindful of their health. “Don’t thrive in excesses. Do everything in moderation. Enjoy life!” she says. Happiness and contentment, with the love and support from family members are just as important in life as is good health.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recognized Mrs. Limbaga and another centenarian, Mrs. Junjuma Landasan, both residents of this city during a program held in celebration of National Elderly Filipino Week on October 5 at the Home for the Elderly.

Earlier, the two centenarians had already received Php100,000, as mandated by the Centenarian Act. The local government also provided an additional Php50,000 to them.

Riduan Hadjimuddin, DSWD-9 assistant regional director told the centenarians’ families to be grateful to celebrate this occasion with them. Hadjimuddin added care for senior citizens by their families must be a priority.

The activity was attended by Mayor Beng Climaco and Councilor Jihan Edding, who announced the local government’s “Largo Vida” (long life) program, which will improve senior citizens’ access to health and other services.

The Home For the Elderly in barangay Talon-Talon is currently home to 30 senior citizens who are left without care. The DSWD maintains this facility to provide the occupants with appropriate services. Occasionally, groups, organizations and caring individuals visit the center to commune with the seniors and provide them with personal care and love in their fragile age.

A series of activities were conducted for the Elderly Filipino week including the “Walk for Life,” where government agencies gave free services such as massage, haircut and medicines for senior citizens. DSWD calls on residents to become more caring and considerate towards the elderly, and appeals to establishments to honor the discounts and privileges mandated by law. (ALT/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)