City officials recently honoured Antonina R. Madayag as the latest centenarian.
Under Resolution No. 018, series of 2024, city legislators stated that Antonina currently resides with her daughter, Remedios Madayag-Famatigan, and is surrounded by the love of 21 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.
She retains her ability to communicate and perform daily activities such as eating and walking but with assistance and is still capable of recognizing individuals.
Madayag, who was born in Sison, Pangasinan, celebrated her 100th birthday last December 28, 2023 with her family and friends at their residence in No. 515, Purok 14-A, UP Village, Irisan barangay.
She was the youngest among four siblings and was orphaned at the tender age of 5. She found solace under the care of her maternal aunt and family.
However, Antonina was not able to pursue further education after completing elementary school because of financial constraints but she dedicatedly supported her family through agricultural work.
In 1942, fate introduced Antonina to Dionisio, kindling a romance that culminated in their marriage on March 27, 1943. The union blossomed into a family of four children.
In 1957, the family relocated to the city where Antonina devoted herself to nurturing her children while Dionisio laboured as a jeepney driver. The family faced a significant loss in 1999 when Dionisio succumbed to illness at the age of 76.
Antonina, as attested by her children, maintains a robust and healthy lifestyle as evidenced in her vegetarianism and regular physical activity. Even in her 60s to 80s, she managed a sari-sari store. The familial bonds are described as harmonious, with her children actively demonstrating affection by ensuring her wellbeing. This nurturing environment has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in her remarkable long life.
The council stipulated that Antonina be awarded the privileges under Ordinance No. 45, series of 2013, as amended by Ordinance No. 53, series of 2016 and further amended by Ordinance 84, series of 2019, as amended by Ordinance No. 10, series of 2022. By Dexter A. See
