CEBU, Philippines - Four centenarians in Cebu City were given the “Centenarian Award” in time for the celebration of Senior Citizens Month yesterday.
The awardees were Maxima Cabilao of Barangay Kamputhaw, Cristina Abella of Barangay Ermita, Paulina Sy of Barangay Kasambagan and Rosario Ynclino of Barangay Basak San Nicolas. They received P100,000 from the city government.
Cabilao’s niece, Maria Nelida Seno, said her aunt has always observed a healthy lifestyle, especially in her choice of food.
“Isda ra gyud na iyang kasagaran nga kan-on ug utan nga subakan og luy-a ug isda og naa. Basta naa lay sabaw. Gatas pud (for the bones). Mokaon na siya baboy pero ginagmay lang. Ang isda pud nga kan-on kinahanglan nga til-ogon gyud,” Seno said.
She said her aunt has never experienced a serious illness.
“Kaluoy sa Ginoo, dili man kaayo grabe iya gipamati. Kon naa man gani, ubo-ubo, hilanat pero i-admit man dayon siya para makahibaw mi unsa buhaton,” she said.
Cabilao has five siblings but she is the only one alive.
Seno said Cabilao grew old single. She used to sell fruits and vegetables at the Carbon Market and arranged flowers for churches during special occasions.
Meanwhile, Abella’s daughter, Puena Ong, said her mother has a simple lifestyle and try to limit the kind of food she eats.
“Daghang bawal. Dili na siya mokaon og karne. Prutas ug gulay ra gyud na iyang kan-on,” Ong said.
Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs head Rolando Llaguno said the younger generation should look up to the four centenarians.
“Mao kanay sumbanan sa mga sunod nga mga henerasyon. Kining mga tawhana, naanad ni sila sa kinabuhi nga simple ug kanang kinabuhi nga ordinaryo nga ilang pagkaon kamunggay kan-on nga ordinary,” he said.
Under Cebu City Ordi-nance 2235, centenarians who are residents of Cebu City for at least 10 years may receive a P100,000 financial assistance. – Mechelle P. Florita/JMO (FREEMAN)