The weeklong celebration, which runs from October 1 to 7, 2025, opened with a gathering of around 1,500 senior citizens from 86 barangays of Butuan City. The activity featured a Walk for Love, followed by a Holy Mass, Zumba, and a community breakfast.

Butuan City Mayor Hon. Lawrence “Law” Fortun graced the event, highlighting the invaluable role of the elderly in family and nation-building.

“I purposely came to this activity to thank our elderlies – Nianhi ko para magpasalamat sa atong mga senior citizens,” Fortun said. He described them as the heart and moral compass of the family, culture bearers, storytellers, and models of nationalism and patriotism, serving as a vital link between the past and the present.

Representing DSWD Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga, Protective Services Division (PSD) Chief Jessie Catherine Aranas also emphasized the agency’s support for older persons.

“DSWD Field Office Caraga sees the value of our senior citizens in nation building kay kamo ang nag-shape and nag-lay down sa foundation sa unsa among karon. Your resilience, commitment, and dedication inspire us to do good today for the future generations to come,” Aranas said.

She added that the Field Office is committed to the prompt delivery of services to senior citizens, particularly beneficiaries of the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens Program and those seeking medical and financial assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

Currently, the agency caters to more than 184,000 qualified senior citizens through its social pension program and continues to assist those in need through AICS. It also works closely with the RAB-SC in advocating the welfare and dignity of the elderly.

As part of the celebration, a Service Caravan of inter-agency partners is scheduled on October 3 (Friday) at the Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, Butuan City, offering a one-stop venue where senior citizens and their families can access various government services.