Still in the game: A senior citizen's reflections

As I edge closer to my 68th birthday, I find myself reflecting on the years gone by with gratitude and renewed hope. I am semi-retired — no longer engaged in the day-to-day operations of an office, yet, performing advisory roles in several financial organizations and social enterprises. I proudly wear my graying hair and laugh lines as badges of a life well-lived, a life still full of purpose. In a country like ours, where respect for elders is deeply woven into the fabric of society, I look forward to embracing the future with open arms and a grateful heart.

- JAIME ARISTOTLE B. ALIP, PHD

There is a quiet revolution happening among Filipino senior citizens today. Gone are the days when reaching 60 meant fading quietly into the background. Across the archipelago, we are seeing more elderly Filipinos remaining active, engaged, and influential — running their businesses, teaching, serving as volunteers, barangay leaders, community advocates and role models. Some are even returning to school or pursuing lifelong dreams that were once placed on hold. That kind of resilience, that lakas ng loob, is uniquely Filipino.

Dominga's story

As always, I draw inspiration from our microfinance clients. At 76, Dominga Perez of Camarines Norte embodies the saying "Age is just a number," as she continues to push forward in her entrepreneurial journey with remarkable determination. Over the years, Dominga has faced numerous challenges, starting as an artisanal miner alongside her first husband. After his passing, she raised six children with her second husband, and mining remained their primary livelihood. Despite the dangers of mining, Dominga persevered, sometimes finding gold, but often leaving with little more than exhaustion.