In Barangay Amaga, Barobo, Surigao del Sur, eighteen women came together with a shared purpose—to address a pressing need in their community. On January 25, 2023, the Amaga Empowered Women SLP Association was formally established. Their goal was to put up a store selling farm and agricultural supplies, as these items were previously expensive and only available in far-flung areas.

At the outset, there was no plan to include a senior citizen in the group. However, the members naturally chose Nanay Corazon, 64 years old, as their president. Her age and life experience became the association’s source of guidance and stability.

“As long as I am able, I will do what I can for the association. My hope is that the younger members will learn and continue what we have started,” Nanay Corazon shared.

To her fellow members, Nanay Corazon is more than just a president. She is the one who settles conflicts, offers comfort in times of difficulty, and provides clear direction through her calm yet firm leadership. Despite her age and health challenges, she never neglects her responsibilities.

The association has brought both assistance and hope to the residents of the barangay. With support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), they were able to establish a business founded on unity—one that helps sustain livelihoods and strengthen family security.

Their story shows that age is not a barrier to serving the community. In fact, growing older can be a source of strength, wisdom, and hope.

As the country celebrates Elderly Filipino Week, individuals like Nanay Corazon deserve recognition for embodying this year’s theme:
“Embracing Age: Living a Life with Dignity and Purpose.”

Through DSWD programs, senior citizens are not merely members of the community—they are active contributors to its development. Initiatives such as the Sustainable Livelihood Program provide dignity by creating opportunities for them to remain productive, and purpose by allowing them to guide the younger generation and help safeguard community well-being.