Ang Aming Pagmamahal Kay Lolo at Lola
PP Glo Cotoco, Concern for the Elderly Chair

    Last February 19, 2011, more than two hundred eighty elderly men and women of Lualhati ng Maynila were treated to a program of music and games by the Global Rotarians of District 3800. These elderlies who are at the sunset of their days have been forgotten and abandoned by the young people who are either too busy making a living or just plain ungrateful. They each have a story to tell. Lualhati ng Maynila, located inside the Manila Boys Town Complex, was initiated by Mayor Alfredo Lim as a refuge for these elderlies where they are taken cared of by volunteer caregivers, social workers and paid orderlies.

    Balloons decorated Lualhati with red tarpaulins echoing the theme of the event “ANG AMING PAGMAMAHAL KAY LOLO AT LOLA”.

    The program, emceed by PP Glo Cotoco of RC of Ortigas Center and Social Worker, Amy, started with a prayer led by Lolo Emilio. A showdown of songs and dances followed with the lolos and lolas and the Global Rotarians, led by Gov. Jun and Lady Zeny, alternating and trying to outdo each other with their singing and dancing talent. After the Rotarians danced a modern dance, the residents led everyone to dance the “chicken dance”. As the residents sang “Tatanda Rin Kayo”, we were reminded of the inevitability of our aging and our hope that we are not abandoned by our families. Exciting games of “shooting the poker chips”, “statue dance” and “passing of gifts” led by PP Joy were played and winners were awarded prizes of chocolates and biscuits.

    Packed lunch of pancit and meat was served after which gift packs were given each one containing T-shirts, used clothes, towels, plastic glass, toothbrush, biscuits and chocolates. Bath soap, cologne, mouth wash, toothpaste, deodorant, blankets and comforters, used clothes, cleaning materials, disinfectants, powdered laundry soap, dishwashing liquids, toasties were donated for use by residents. A digital camera was also given to the Admin Office c/o Ms. Leonila Borja for their record keeping requirements.

    We are thankful that we were given the chance to make the lolos and lolas realize that while we may be strangers, we can share with them some love and care that they no longer receive from their families. With the cash donations, the committee bought rechargeable batteries and charger for the digital camera, shampoo, plastic glasses, disposable clear glasses for drinking water, biscuits, chocolates, candies, plastic bags. It was an unforgettable and joyful experience to be able to extend assistance to the residents and witness the happiness and the smiles in their faces. We can see in their faces their wish that we be with them longer. ·

    Thank you all for sharing your blessings with our lolos and lolas!