The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, in its effort to recognize the Filipino centenarians, has continued to provide grants to the seniors who have reached 100 years and above. Alejandrina Fraga, a centenarian from Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur, received a certificate of recognition from the Field Office and a letter of felicitation from the Philippines President, on April 13, 2022.

At 100 years of age, Lola Alejandrina can still afford to dance. As a matter of fact, she performed a Tiktok dance craze on her birthday, on March 26, 2022, leaving her audience in awe.

“Vegetarian yan si mama, hindi yan kumakain ng karne. Isda at gulay lang, okay na sa kanya. Paborito nga niyang gulay ‘yong saluyot atsaka alugbati. Mahal na mahal namin yan si mama, pati nga mga kamag-anak namin, concern na concern sa kanya (Mama is a vegan, she never eats meat.  Fish and vegetables are enough. Her favourite vegies are jute/spinach leaves and Malabar spinach. We love her so much that even our relatives put up a lot of concern for her),” Elenita F. Sobriano (Maharlika Barangay Chairperson, daughter and caretaker of Lola Alejandrina) said.

During the awarding of her grant, Lola Alejandrina greeted her visitors with a graceful dance and a heartfelt appreciation as she uttered “thank you”.

Jessie Catherin B. Aranas, PSD Chief, spearheaded the centenarian payout along with the local government unit of Hinatuan led by Mayor Shem Garay. They handed over the certificate of recognition from DSWD FO Caraga, felicitation letter containing congratulatory message from the Philippines President Rodrigo R. Duterte and the cash gift from the Department.