ZamboSur-OSCA Updates

18/11/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | 𝐖𝐌𝐒𝐔 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐂𝐀 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

November 18, 2025 — Social work students from West Mindanao State University (WMSU) visited the Provincial Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (POSCA) to ask about the different interventions available for senior citizens. The students wanted to understand the programs, services, and support provided to help ensure the wellbeing of older persons.

During their visit, the POSCA staff explained the office’s programs and services, including their regular activities, assistance, and other initiatives meant to support senior citizens in the province. The staff gave clear information to help the students understand how these interventions are carried out in the community.

The discussion helped the students gain a better view of the welfare programs for senior citizens. Their visit also supported their learning by giving them correct and updated information on how POSCA works to promote the wellbeing of the elderly.


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15/11/2025

14/11/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐂𝐀 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐟𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤

November 14, 2025

The Provincial Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs held a program for World Kindness Day and Deafness Awareness Week. The event started with a prayer, the national anthem, and opening remarks from Joy Tablon, who reminded everyone why understanding and awareness of the Deaf community are important in daily life and work.

A key part of the program was Basic Sign Language Training led by Marichu Navales and Paul Tindoc. Marichu is Deaf, and her leading the session sent a clear message about inclusion. It showed that persons with disabilities can be teachers and leaders, not just participants. Learning from a Deaf person made the session more real and meaningful because it highlighted the importance of communication that includes everyone.

Participants learned the American Sign Language (ASL) alphabet and basic words, followed by a simple self-introduction using sign language. Many realized that even small efforts to learn ASL can make communication easier and kinder for people who use signs as their main language.

SPES students performed intermission numbers and shared messages of thanks, which added warmth to the program. The event ended with a group song in sign language, bringing everyone together and emphasizing the purpose of the day.

For senior citizens, this observance is especially important. Many older people naturally lose some hearing as they age, which can make communication harder and more isolating. Deaf Awareness Week reminds us that hearing challenges affect people of all ages, including seniors. Learning basic sign language can help seniors communicate better, stay involved in conversations, and feel supported by family, caregivers, and the community.

The program closed with remarks from Hipolito Caballero, who encouraged everyone to keep practicing what they learned. The whole event reminded everyone that inclusion grows through simple actions, understanding, and everyday kindness.

13/11/2025

𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐲!

Kindness is more than just a good deed, it’s a quiet strength that brings people closer. On this World Kindness Day, we celebrate the simple ways we can show care for one another, especially to our senior citizens. Through helping hands, gentle smiles, and words of comfort, this remind us that kindness doesn’t need to be loud to make a difference.

For many elders, kindness is both what they give and what keeps them going. It’s the connection that turns ordinary days into meaningful moments. As we honor them today, may their example inspire all of us to live with more patience, care, and compassion, not only today, but every day.

07/11/2025

𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐫 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞

The Provincial Government of Zamboanga del Sur, led by Governor Divina Grace Yu, recently started a new telemedicine program to make healthcare easier for people across the province, especially senior citizens. The program is in partnership with the Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC) and connects local health centers, including Rural Health Units, to medical specialists through an online platform. This setup allows older adults to get medical advice, check-ups, and follow-up care more quickly and without having to travel far.

This program is especially helpful for seniors who have a hard time going to hospitals or clinics, particularly those living in remote areas. Through telemedicine, they can get medical guidance and treatment while staying in their own communities. It also helps them manage long-term health conditions because they can check in with doctors regularly without the stress of traveling long distances.

The program is a team effort involving the Provincial Health Office, City Health Office, Rural Health Units, and ZCMC. Representatives from these offices worked together to plan how the system will run and make sure it works smoothly. The goal is to make healthcare easier to reach, faster, and better suited to the needs of older adults.

With this new program, Governor Yu’s administration continues to improve healthcare in Zamboanga del Sur while keeping senior citizens’ needs in mind. By using technology, the provincial government ensures that medical care can reach every part of the province, helping older adults get the attention and treatment they need safely and conveniently.

07/11/2025

𝐓𝐎𝐃𝐀𝐘 | 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐂𝐀 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 )𝐋𝐓𝐅𝐑𝐁) 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The Provincial Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (POSCA), together with the Provincial Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO), attended the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region IX Public Consultation on Fare Hike on November 7, 2025. This nationwide consultation invited operators, stakeholders, commuters, and interested parties to discuss the proposed fare increase petitions. The meeting was attended by LTFRB Regional Director Tommy C. Macadindang and Hon. Bienvenido Culve, City Councilor and Chairperson of the Committee on LTFRB. Director Macadindang emphasized that the consultation was part of a nationwide initiative and that the main topic was the proposed fare increase.

During the program, questions were raised regarding differences between traditional and modern transportation and the reasons behind the fare hike. Director Macadindang explained that the increase is largely due to rising fuel costs.

Representatives from various agencies highlighted concerns about how transportation services accommodate vulnerable groups, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities. One major issue discussed was the operation of colorum vehicles, which often charge higher fares and are difficult to report due to the lack of official plate numbers. Another pressing concern for senior citizens was the difficulty of commuting due to the lack of proper bus stops or stopovers. In many city areas, buses operated on a “drop-and-go” system, stopping wherever commuters requested, which made travel unpredictable and challenging. The LTFRB suggested establishing proper, designated stops to make commuting safer and more convenient for everyone, particularly older adults.

Concerns were also raised about overpriced fares in general. The LTFRB reminded commuters that any issues with fares or services should be reported through their official email. The PDAO representative, Hipolito Caballero, also pointed out the lack of proper seating for passengers using assistive devices, noting cases where drivers either refused to provide the appropriate seats or even denied boarding.

The consultation underscored the importance of transportation services that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all commuters. For senior citizens, this includes ensuring safe, accessible, and well-organized transport, as well as protecting their rights to fare discounts and proper accommodations. The participation of POSCA and the PDAO highlighted the ongoing commitment to advocating for the mobility and welfare of senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

01/11/2025

🕯️ 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐬’ 𝐃𝐚𝐲 🕯️

Today, we remember and honor our departed loved ones, especially our senior citizens who have gone ahead of us. Their love, wisdom, and guidance remain in our hearts and continue to inspire us every day.

This day also reminds us to value and care for our senior citizens who are still with us, to listen to their stories and appreciate the lives they continue to live.

29/10/2025

Celebrating Local Government Month 2025! We honor the dedication, service, and leadership that strengthen our communities and promote good governance. 💙✨

In Zamboanga del Sur, the Provincial Government, the Local Government Unit, and the Provincial OSCA continue to work closely with our senior citizens to provide quality programs and services that support their welfare, dignity, and active involvement in the community. 🤝💛

Together, we strive to build a province that values and empowers every generation. 🌿🌟

26/10/2025

𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞, 𝐚𝐬 𝐈𝐭 𝐈𝐬

In life, experiences change constantly. What once felt impossible now seems within reach. As we move through time, we grow, we falter, and we change.

For senior citizens, life has stretched far and wide. They have lived more years than most, felt deeper joys, and endured heavier hurts. They say that being a senior citizen is a privilege now, to live beyond sixty is a golden triumph, a quiet proof of strength. A goal passed. A challenge endured.

Maybe some still wish they could go back, to relive a day, to fix a decision, or simply to feel young again. But somehow, small things always bring them back to the present, a familiar song, the warmth of morning light, a grandchild’s laughter. And in that moment, they remember that every choice, even the painful ones, led them here.

So let’s live like our elders. Let’s not rush to live life to the fullest just yet, but to live it slowly, like the sun rising in the sky to greet the morning.
Let’s live life slowly, but surely, this time.

Happy Sunday Everyone!

25/10/2025

𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 | 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝟓 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐒𝐂𝐀 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓!

The Provincial Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (POSCA) proudly celebrates the Top 5 Most Outstanding Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) in Zamboanga del Sur for 2025. A heartfelt congratulations to their exceptional dedication, compassion, and tireless service to our beloved senior citizens.

1️⃣ Molave
2️⃣ Lakewood
3️⃣ Aurora
4️⃣ Tabina
5️⃣ Ramon Magsaysay

Each of these municipalities has shown remarkable commitment in caring for the elderly, creating programs that promote active, healthy, and meaningful aging while ensuring that services and benefits truly reach those who need them most. Their hard work and sincerity continue to inspire others to serve with heart, respect, and integrity.

This recognition is also made possible through the help of the Provincial Government, the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of the Philippines (FSCAP)

Through this celebration, the province and the Provincial OSCA reaffirms their commitment to building a caring and supportive community where every senior citizen is honored, supported, and deeply appreciated. 💐❤️👵👴

23/10/2025

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

October 23, 2025 —
Sanggunian Panlalawigan Building, Dao, Pagadian City

The Provincial Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (POSCA), along with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), and the Provincial Government, celebrated Elderly Filipino Week 2025 with the theme “Embracing Age: Living a Life with Dignity and Purpose.”

The celebration was hosted by Romano Juniver and Jane Oroc, who warmly welcomed all guests and participants. The program began with an opening prayer led by Ms. Evelyn Manalo, OSCA Head of Labangan, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.

Princes Jul Baluran, POSCA Assistant Focal Person, led the opening remarks. She expressed gratitude to everyone who continues to support and uplift the welfare of senior citizens across the province.

Adding color and joy to the morning, the Social Work Interns from Southern Mindanao College gave an energetic intermission number.

Provincial Director Dave M. Barrot of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) shared the significance of the celebration, highlighting that Zamboanga del Sur is among the first to celebrate Elderly Filipino Week. He underscored that senior citizens serve as guides and nurturers of future generations and that every individual, regardless of age, helps shape the community. Provincial Director Barrot also encouraged everyone to continue promoting the welfare and participation of senior citizens in local development.

One of the highlights of the program was the keynote address delivered by Honorable Governor Divina Grace Yu, who emphasized that the provincial government is committed to ensuring that the elderly sector receives proper care and attention. She announced that starting January 2026, the province will begin implementing a program that provides incentives for senior citizens aged 70 and above. The governor also encouraged everyone to view aging as a privilege and to live with purpose, grace, and dignity.

The event also recognized outstanding municipalities and OSCA Heads through the Search for the Best Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) 2025. The awardees were commended for their dedication and service to the elderly sector.

To keep the festive spirit alive, the Social Work Interns from Saint Columban College presented a heartfelt intermission number dedicated to all senior citizens.

Messages of support followed from Provincial Board Member Hon. Rogelio Saniel, Provincial Board Member Atty. Francisvic Villamero, Regional Director Fernando Sumondong of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), and Provincial Vice Governor Roseller Ariosa. Hon. Saniel, who also serves as Chairman of the Committee on Elders and Persons with Disabilities, highlighted the importance of caring for senior citizens and encouraged them to continue inspiring others: “Plant seeds so that your children and the community will remember you.”

During the release of honorarium for federation presidents, the province expressed appreciation for the hard work and leadership of federation officers serving senior citizens in their communities.

In the NCSC Updates 2025, Mr. Jorry Padayogdog, Project Development Officer IV of NCSC, shared that more than 350,000 senior citizens across the country have been supported and promoted through various programs. He also announced the winners of the Most Outstanding Senior Citizens Awards, which were developed through the collaboration of NCSC and Officer in Charge of Provincial OSCA, Miriam Acosta-Llanos.

The winners for the Search for the Most Outstanding Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) 2025 were also announced, with Molave taking the top spot, followed by Lakewood in second place, Aurora in third, Tabina in fourth, and Ramon Magsaysay in fifth. In addition, three special recognitions were given: Pagadian City for its best practices, Lakewood for the newly established OSCA during assessment, and Tabina for being the first municipality in Mindanao to establish a Senior Citizens Center.

Zamboanga del Sur also received a national-level award, with Poblacion, Pitogo earning the second certificate for satisfactory compliance. In addition, Ms. Miriam Acosta-Llanos, Provincial OSCA In-Charge, received a special recognition for her continued dedication to the elderly sector.

Mr. Pedro Rupinta, FSCAP Federation President, delivered an inspiring message that reflected his dedication and compassion for his fellow senior citizens.

A touching musical number, “Awiting Handog para kay Lolo at Lola,” was performed by Mr. Juniver II G. Romano, followed by a fun and lively Zumba session led by the Provincial OSCA Staff, where both guests and senior citizens danced together with enthusiasm and joy.

Officer in Charge of Provincial OSCA, Miriam Acosta-Llanos, thanked everyone who took part in the celebration and reaffirmed the province’s continued commitment to supporting the elderly. The program ended with a closing prayer led by Ms. Evelyn Manalo, OSCA Head of Lakewood.

The event concluded on a warm and hopeful note, reminding everyone that aging is not simply about growing older, but about living a life full of wisdom, kindness, and gratitude.

23/10/2025

Happy birthday, RD Fernando Sumondong! 🎉🎂

On your special day, may you find peace and appreciation that you’ve given so freely to others, most especially, to our beloved senior citizens. May life continue to reward you with calm days, meaningful work, and moments that remind you how much you are valued, not just for what you do, but for who you are. 🙏✨

Wishing you strength, good health, and genuine happiness! 🌿🎈💫