By: Abraham Reign Magbiro
Photo courtesy of Julia Iris Eguillano / The LANCE & Frenzie Garcia / Letran Engineering Society and Layout by Maverick Rhoy De Vera / The LANCE
Students from the Political Science, Legal Management, Tourism, and Information Technology programs, hosted “Letran Cares: A Day of Health, Rights, and Community for the Elderly” as part of their RE02 subject in partnership with the Letran Community Extension Department (CED), on Saturday, Nov. 8, at Salon de Actos.
The event gathered senior citizens from Barangay 657, Intramuros, and partner communities to raise awareness about their health rights and benefits, and to inform participants about laws and services that support the elderly.
The program began with an episode from the Old People Matter (OPM) series, about the Senior Citizens Act of 1992 (RA 7432). This episode featured guests Atty. Teresita Castillon-Laura and Atty. Bayani V. Hipol, who discussed senior citizens’ rights and benefits.
The video explained mandatory benefits such as a 20% discount on goods and services. It also highlighted local government support like cash gifts, medicines, free movies, and parking privileges.
The participants were also introduced to a medical booklet, which helps them claim their benefits. The video warned that establishments giving less than the required amount discount risk fines of P50,000 and imprisonment of up to three years.
Speakers also highlighted the role of the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) which assists seniors with their concerns and organizes community events like Christmas parties and hospital support.
Additionally, Senior Citizen Centers were introduced as well to anyone aged 60 and above, regardless of nationality, to process their cases.
The event also featured OPM Episode 3: Health and Wellness featuring Dr. Ma. Lourdes “Honey” A. Carandang and Dr. Jaime Galvez-Ten, who shared advice on staying healthy.
2CE students engage senior citizens in dialogue and activities
In the afternoon, the 2nd year Civil Engineering students hosted “Reigniting the Cultural Flame: Celebration for the Elderly”. The event aimed to reconnect with senior citizens through casual conversations and engaging activities.
The event opened with John Jacob Escalante, who gave the opening remarks welcoming the guests and outlined the day’s activities.
The hosts later engaged the senior citizens participants from Barangay 654, Intramuros in a short dialogue, asking about their life experiences and advice for students.
One elderly participant encouraged students to “dagdagan nyo ang pag-aaral nyo para makatulong din kayo sa kinabukasan ng bansa,” they shared.
Another elderly participant shared important life lessons, saying “Wag kayo gumawa ng ikakasama pa ng iba.”
During an activity where participants shared personal stories, one elderly attendee recalled, “Pumapasok ako noon wala akong tsinelas pero patuloy pa rin ako pumapasok para lang makapag-aral.”
A kamustahan session followed, where the hosts checked in on the well-being of the elderly, listening to their stories and advice. Foods and rosaries were also distributed to the guests.
The program concluded with closing remarks from a student representative, who expressed warm thanks to the Letran Filipiniana Dance Company (LFDC) for their intermission performance, organizers, and audience.