103 Years of wisdom: Tinglayan LGU honors Lola Biano Tinnay Dangsoy as a living treasure of the community

FEATURE

Tinglayan, Kalinga – In a world that moves increasingly fast, the stories and wisdom of the elderly often serve as bridges connecting the present generation to the past.

For the people of Tinglayan, one such bridge is Lola Biano Tinnay Dangsoy of Barangay Balay, whose 103 years of life stand as a testament to resilience, faith, and enduring strength.

Having lived through more than a century of change, Lola Biano has witnessed generations grow, families flourish, and communities evolve. Her life story reflects not only longevity but also the values, experiences, and lessons that have helped shape the community she calls home.

Recognizing her remarkable journey and invaluable contribution to the town, the Municipal Local Government Unit of Tinglayan, through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWD), recently awarded her a ₱20,000 cash incentive.

The incentive was received on her behalf by her son-in-law, Junior Dangit Alunday.

More than financial assistance, the recognition symbolizes the municipality’s appreciation for senior citizens whose lives embody the history, culture, and traditions of Tinglayan.

For local officials, honoring elders is about acknowledging the important role they play in preserving community identity and passing on life lessons to younger generations.

Their stories provide insights that cannot be found in books, while their experiences offer guidance shaped by decades of perseverance and hard work.

Tinglayan Mayor Charles Abay described senior citizens like Lola Biano as living treasures whose contributions extend far beyond their years.

According to the mayor, elders carry lessons and wisdom that continue to benefit families and communities long after they have been shared.

“Kasano ngata ti maysa a komunidad no awan dagiti lallakay ken babbaket a mangibingay kadatayo iti kapadasanda iti biag? Ni Lola Biano ket saan laeng a maysa a 103-anyos a residente ti Tinglayan. Isuna ket maysa a nanang, lola ken mangisuro babaen iti mismo a panagbiagna ken kapadasan. Daytoy nga insentibo ket bassit laeng a wagas tapno ipakitami ti panagyaman ken panangipateg iti naipaayna a legasiya iti pamiliana ken komunidad,” Abay said.

The mayor emphasized that the incentive is a simple expression of gratitude for the sacrifices, guidance, and legacy that elders leave behind.

In many indigenous communities such as Tinglayan, elders are regarded not only as senior members of society but also as custodians of tradition, culture, and collective memory.

Through them, stories of the past, traditional practices, and community values continue to be preserved and passed on.

As younger generations navigate an increasingly modern world, the presence of elders like Lola Biano serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering one's roots.

At 103 years old, Lola Biano represents more than a milestone age. She embodies a century of experiences, lessons, and quiet strength that continue to inspire those around her.

For Tinglayan, honoring its elderly is not merely a gesture of respect—it is a recognition that the wisdom of the past remains essential in shaping the future.