2 October 2016- A total of 536 older persons aged 60 years and older gathered to South Cotabato Sports Complex marking the celebration of Elderly Filipino Week, observed every first week of October as mandated in Presidential Proclamation No. 470.
This year’s theme “Pagmamahal at Respeto ng Nakababata, Nagpapaligaya sa Nakatatanda”, emphasizes that older persons should be loved, cared for, and respected as they play important roles in nation building. This annual celebration also raise awareness about respecting the rights of elderlies and protecting them from any forms of neglect, exploitation and abuse in the same manner how we care about the children.
The “Walk for life”, as every year’s kick-off activity of the week-long celebration was spearheaded by Philhealth and Department of Health in partnership with other government agencies, including National Nutrition Council XII, as well as local government units and senior citizen associations to enhance awareness of the public on the health concerns and well-being of older persons.
After the walk, free health services were provided such as blood pressure taking, medical and dental consultations, free medicines and pneumococcal vaccines for selected and qualified participants. NNC XII on the otherhand took charge of giving appropriate health teachings to maintain their health status and nutritional guidelines for senior citizens.

The celebration of Filipino elderly week signifies that we Filipinos, in spite of various culture influences nowadays, has always been recognized and known for being respectful especially among the elderlies. Moreover, we always consider that our elderlies are always part of a traditional Filipino family which is the basic part of our society. It is most importantly addressed among Filipino youths and to the next generations that the virtue of respect and care for older persons reflects how Filipinos possess genuine and deep love for family in general. BY:DANAH PEARL G. AUREL