ABEL’s ‘Golden Companionships’ spotlights warm bond thru elderly care home outreach

by John Vincent Balustre

Gugma. Pailob. Pagsabot.

Canaway, ILIGAN CITY— In collaboration with the College of Arts and Social Sciences Executive Council (CASS-EC) and the MSU-IIT Red Cross Youth, Project ABEL carried out its extension initiative, “Golden Companionships” for elderlies at the Bishop Bienvenido Tudtud Home for the Aged on Saturday, August 31.

A showcase of timeless vocals through spontaneous sing-alongs and a revelation of a youthful spirit through dance entries turned the program into a profound embrace of familiarity as volunteers had the chance to connect with the elderlies.

The segment was then followed by the sharing of experiences that highlighted the recollection of their best memories, spanning from their abode, student life, and even brave accounts of societal turning points. 

Volunteers also assisted Lolo and Lolas with their meal, extended by Project ABEL along with in-kind donations that aim to help on their everyday sustenance.

Ana Butanas, secretary to the administrator of Bishop Bienvenido Tudtud Home for the Aged, expressed her gratitude, noting that this kind of initiative doesn't only contribute to the availability of basic provisions but also to the well-being of senior citizens prompted by the cordial engagement of a ‘companion’.

In a small talk, Lola Rosalia conveyed, “maayo nga programa”, pointing out how she enjoyed the off-the-cuff entertainment and blood pressure monitoring service offered by the MSU-IIT Red Cross Youth.
For decades, the assisted living residence has been relying on donations and the dedication of volunteers to sustain their operation. 

“Gugma, pa-ilog, ug pagsabot; kanang tulo mao jod na imong i-kuan [embody] kung naa ka diri,” added Butanas, bringing to light her purpose and unrelenting service to the community.

She also reminded the youth, in light of Project ABEL, a youth-led initiative, to keep the passion alive and anchor its purpose back home from where everything starts: family. 

For donations in any form, the home for the aged is located in Canaway, Iligan City. It is under the diocese of Iligan led by Bishop Jose Ramirez Rapadaz II and in the care of its administrator, Sister Maria Antonia Rebusto.