The elderly is perceived to be one of the most vulnerable groups in the society. Our country sees them as mere recipients of help and assistance.
However, when the Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines (FSCAP) – Quezon Chapter emerged victorious at the 2ND Regional Bayani Ka Awards, Bayanihan Category, the stigma of frail elderly was proven otherwise.
The Bayani Ka Awards was held to honor the members of the community who showed unwavering commitment and dedication to community service. Awardees range from volunteers, civil society organizations, to local government units.
The level of participation required to be granted this award is basically high. To name a few, the common tasks of the volunteers who receive this award include writing sub-project proposal, maintaining a high level of community participation in assemblies, and being a part of LGU dialogues and meetings – tasks that are unlikely done by people way past their retirement age.
“Sa edad naming ito, ang gusto lang naman namin ay mayroong maiwang maganda sa mga anak namin at sa susunod na henerasyon,” said Severino Taylan, a member of the Barangay Representation Team (BRT).
According to them, they want to maximize their decades of experience in different areas of community leadership by steering the younger generations to aim for empowerment.
While most people their age stay at home and enjoy the comforts of retirement, the group endures the scorching summer heat in their barangay hall just to participate in barangay assemblies. They even go as far as walking house-to-house just to invite their fellow citizens to participate in barangay assemblies.
During their victory speech at the awards day, their representative said, “Maraming salamat sa pagkilala ninyo sa ginagawa namin. Makakaasa kayong ipagpapatuloy namin ang serbisyo sa bayan.”
Their story goes to show that community service is not limited to those who have strong bones, agile body, and shiny black hair. Sometimes, community volunteerism is best reflected by our wrinkly, silver-haired grandmas and grandpas who are willing to go the distance just to render service.
After being awarded at the 2nd Regional Bayani Ka Awards last October 15 at The Harvest Hotel, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, the FSCAP will also become Region 3’s representative to the National Bayani Ka Awards.
SALUTE TO OUR ELDERLY FOR THE UNPARALLELED HEROISM!### (Ma. Dennielle M. Lomboy)
