(Photo courtesy of the Municipal Government of Catarman)
CATARMAN, Northern Samar — Senior citizens here were urged to take a more active role in community affairs and local programs, with municipal officials emphasizing that their experience, knowledge and voices remain valuable to society.
The call was made during the culmination of the week-long celebration of Elderly Filipino Week 2026, which ended with a slogan-making contest among senior citizens’ associations at the Senior Citizens Building in Catarman.
Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) Head Merlyn Ambos and Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of Catarman (FSCAC) Vice President Carmen Mejia thanked the participants for their involvement in the activities, which began on Oct. 1.
They encouraged more senior citizens to participate in programs intended for their sector and in activities within their respective communities, stressing that older people have important contributions beyond receiving pensions and government assistance.
Senior citizens, they said, should be recognized not only for their participation in recreational activities but also for their wisdom, experiences and capacity to contribute to community development.
“Let us be active so that our voices continue to be heard, to show that even in old age, we still have contributions to society. Let us attend, especially spiritual activities, because these are important to us,” Ambos said.
The slogan-making contest carried the theme, “Elderly Filipinos: With Value and Rights, With Voice and Contribution to the Nation,” highlighting the dignity, rights and continuing role of older Filipinos in society.
Barangay Narra won first place, followed by Barangay Daganas in second place and Barangay Cervantes in third place. Barangay Acacia placed fourth, followed by Barangay Cawayan in fifth, Barangay Airport Village in sixth and Barangay Old Rizal in seventh.
Atty. Silver Jobi Ambos and Information Officer Rachel Arnaiz served as judges.
The activity was organized by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office through OSCA, in collaboration with FSCAC.
Under the administration of Mayor Dianne Rosales, the municipal government said it would continue strengthening programs for senior citizens, recognizing their important role in the community and promoting their active participation in local affairs.
(EUGENE M. ENANO)
