At 80 years old, Elizabeth Omnes carries with her the quiet dignity of a life spent in public service. For 34 years, she faithfully served as a government employee at the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), dedicating decades of her life to helping others and upholding the values of public service.
This former public servant became a grateful beneficiary herself, as she received a P10,000 cash gift from the government through the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) – Region 02 during the simultaneous ceremonial payout of benefits under Republic Act 11982 (An Act Granting Cash Gift to Octogenarians, Nonagenarians, and Centenarians) held in Alicia, Isabela on February 26, 2025.
Lola Elizabeth is one of the 27 senior citizens, including octogenarians, nonagenarians, and a centenarian, who received the special cash gift under the NCSC’s program for older persons.
“Masaya ako na anihin ang bunga ng aking paninilbihan noon. Ganito pala ang pakiramdam ng makatanggap ng pagmamahal mula sa gobyerno,” Lola Elizabeth shared, her eyes reflecting the joy of finally being on the receiving end of the care she once helped deliver.
For Lola Elizabeth, the cash gift is more than just financial support, but a symbol of appreciation and recognition from a government she once served wholeheartedly.
Her story resonates deeply with many senior citizens who have spent their lives in service and are now experiencing the government’s commitment to their welfare.
According to Dulceneah Lyra F. Dela Cruz, officer-in-charge of the NCSC in Region 2, this initiative aims to honor and support the elderly across the nation, acknowledging their contributions to society and ensuring their needs are met in their twilight years.
What makes Lola Elizabeth’s story extra special is the full-circle moment it represents—from a career marked by service to a retirement season marked by gratitude. Her journey is a testament to the idea that service does not end at retirement and that every act of care and compassion eventually finds its way back. (ALM/PIA Region 2)
