In the previous years, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 6 gave honor and time to the elderly people in the different areas in the region with their own simple ways.

Thus, a Pamaskwa para kay Lolo kag Lola was conducted by the PENRO Negros Occidental under the leadership of PENRO Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya together with PENRO Chief TSD Catherine Balasa, Chief MSD Rosario Rostata, Chief RPS Remia Buaron, and the PERNO personnel to the one hundred forty-five (145) Senior Citizens, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and trisikad drivers of Barangay 39, Bacolod City on December 19, 2023.

A short program including a free medical check-up was conducted and gift packs were distributed to all participants. On behalf of Punong Barangay Dante Danoy, Barangay Kagawad Ma. Rizalina Diaz welcomed all present and expressed her gratitude to the whole PENRO Negros Occidental family for letting them feel valued and for always including the Senior Citizens in the yearly activity.

Meanwhile, the Provincial ENR Office of Iloilo shared the joy of the holiday season to the beloved Lolos and Lolas, as well as to the community of Asilo De Molo- a Home for Elderly through simple gift giving, and a series of dance and song numbers.

The Head of the Social Services of Asilo de Molo, Ms. Magdalena Tumilba, gave her welcome message and thanked PENRO Iloilo for always extending their love and support to the elderly. This undertaking was initiated by PENR Officer Salvador C. Manglinong, Jr., together with the Chief Management Services Division (MSD) Rossinee T. Gunce, Chief Technical Services Division (TSD) Alma E. Ballego, with the support and cooperation of PENRO Iloilo personnel.

“Aging is something we can’t stop. We will eventually experience white hairs, wrinkles, and bones tend to shrink in size, but these people are not elders, they were once wise men/women,  history makers, previous problem solvers, and our beloved person,” said DENR 6 Regional Executive Director Livino B. Duran.

“May we not forget that and continue to give then honour and pride,” his concluding statement.