In the Philippines, men and women aged 60 and above are considered senior citizens, and it's often seen as a blessing from heaven if they are still living. Some enjoy their pensions, relax at home with their families, travel, watch free movies in cinemas, take zumba or other outdoor activities with peers and make friends, or stay active in church and other organizations.
However, this is not the complete reality, as many senior citizens cannot afford to rest or stop working. They remain the breadwinners of their families, with their children—and even grandchildren—still depending on them for support.
Help poured in for the 79-year-old grandmother who still serves as the breadwinner for her seven children and four grandchildren, after her story was shared by college instructor Reyan Bantolo Ballaso.
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| Photo courtesy: Reyan Ballaso (FB)/Pexels |
In his Facebook post on October 4, the teacher interviewed "Nanay Milagros" during community extension services at Bacolod City College, where he teaches.
The instructor was shocked to learn that Nanay Milagros was still the one earning a living for her family, and that her daily earnings amounted to only ₱150. The elderly woman reportedly walks to the market, carrying the vegetables she sells.
The elderly woman admitted that she was extremely exhausted from working. She shared that her children do not have regular or stable jobs. Because of this, the college instructor appealed for help, particularly for Nanay Milagros' grandchildren, so they could continue their education.
His Facebook post, “Nanay Milagros, at 79, is the pillar supporting her seven children and four grandchildren, shouldering their daily expenses. Yes, at 79!!”
“Every day, Nanay Milagros walks kilometers from her home to the market, and back, buying and selling vegetables. Despite her hard work, the most she earns is just 150 pesos a day.”
“With tears in her eyes, she confided in me that she’s exhausted. We can ease her burden by finding someone to help cover her grandchild’s school transportation costs. I assured her I will find someone who will help support for her grandchild’s education.”
“I haven't found anyone yet, but if you'd like to help her directly, feel free to message me.”
Ballaso, in an interview, said that Nanay Milagros' children do not have regular or stable jobs and only take on occasional work. One of her children is also experiencing post-partum disorder and requires medical assistance.
According to the instructor’s subsequent Facebook posts, he mentioned that help has poured in for Nanay Milagros after his post went viral. The money raised will be used to set up a small sari-sari store for her to help with her livelihood. Some netizens also promised to sponsor the transportation costs for her grandchildren to attend school.
Although help has been pouring in, some have expressed that they hope Nanay Milagros' other children would also step up, so the grandmother would no longer have to work so hard.
For those who wish to extend help to Nanay Milagros, please reach out through Ballaso's Facebook account.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
