BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The 124th birthday of Lola Francisca Susano in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, who is being considered as the oldest woman in the world, was marked on Sept. 11, with high-ranking government officials as among the well-wishers.
National Commission of Senior Citizens Commissioner Franklin Quijano and Commissioner Jorge Largado of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples personally visited Lola Francisca on Sept. 11 at her residence in Brgy. Oringao, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, who showered her of gifts.
The supercentenarian was recently acknowledged by the Guinness Organization as the oldest living person after submitting all required documents
Accompanied by Kabankalan City Mayor Pedro Zayco and Vice Mayor Raul Rivera, Quijano presented to P10,000 in cash, manager check worth P24,000, plaque of recognition, and bouquet of flowers, to her, which also witnessed by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Zayco and Rivera also gave a cake, medical supplies, vitamins and groceries for Lola Francisca, on top of the two wheelchairs, face shields, dusters and blankets, through the courtesy of Provincial Health Office and Department of Health.
The Kabankalan City Police Station led by PLt. Col. Mary Rose Salve Pico also gave her birthday presents.
Lola Francisca is a member of the IP community in her village.
Lola Francisa credits her longevity to her positive attitude, a healthy diet, and abstaining from alcohol.
She never left her birthplace where she enjoys a lifetime of peace and tranquility, away from all kinds of pollution.
Lola Francisca is usually being served with food she likes to eat, including an oatmeal or vegetable soup like squash.*
