The golden girls (between 60 to 85 years old) gracefully glided down the ramp like seasoned fashion models in their kimonas designed by National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW) Commissioner "Lola" Luz Gonzalez.
Dubbed as "Kimona ni Lola," the event was organized by the Philippine United Senior Citizens Association (Pusca) which was founded 15 years ago by "Lola" Luz.
At 83, "lola" Luz is a picture of grace and elegance. Clad in a black skirt and kimona with lace sleeves, this grandma surely knows the importance of looking good.
She wore a light make–up, her cheeks had enough blush, a coat of shimmer on her lips and her long, black (dyed) hair was neatly pulled back in a bun.
"Old age should not be a hindrance to look beautiful. When you feel good about yourself, you feel empowered," said "lola" Luz, who is now confined on a wheelchair.
"I have a heart ailment, diabetes and ulcer. Lately, my sight and hearing have been affected. I’m sure it won’t be long before God will call me," she said with a grin.
Still, her health condition doesn’t stop her from doing the things that are dear to her.
"I want to spend the remaining days of my life productively. I will continue to inspire others, especially the elderly," she said.
A journalist by profession, she has received numerous citations here and abroad for her civic works.
"When I was young, my mom would always read to me Bible stories. The story of the lepers struck me the most. I told my mom that I would help the lepers when I grow up. I was only five then," she recalled.
Lola Luz kept her promise. When she graduated from college, she signed up as volunteer at the Tala Leprosarium in Novaliches.
"I would go there every week. I interacted with the leprous people and listened to all their sentiments. I was also active in the cancer society, TB society and the Jaycees before," she added.
Lola Luz added that her life changed dramatically when her first grandchild, Errol Gonzalez, was born.
"Being a lola is so fulfilling. I didn’t want to leave the house then. Errol chose to live with me in the U.S. When Errol died seven years ago, I was devastated. Errol was my life. In fact, If he had asked for my life, I would have gladly given it to him," the teary–eyed grandma said.
In 1998, Lola Luz decided to retire in the Philippines and has since been active with Pusca. In fact, she considers its members as her second family.
For the "Kimona ni Lola" fashion show, Lola Luz was joined by 40 grandmas who temporarily "abandoned" their apos, set aside their bettle nuts, took off their dusters and abalorios to have fun on the ramp.
"We always look forward to this event. In fact, some of us went to beauty salons for a hair dye and to hide those wrinkles. When you’re old, you tend to feel ugly. But today, it feels like I just turned 18," said Dolly Ponce, Pusca Pasay City head.
Lola Dolly, wearing a hand-embroidered kimona made of sack, is no novice on the catwalk. She’s been the fashion director of "Kimona ni Lola" since it started five years ago.
So when lola Dolly was named "Fashion Model of the Year," every one agreed the judges had made the right decision.
Special awards went to Marietta Serrano, Baby Sam Pedro of Tugatog, Malabon; Beng Galvez of Q.C.
The Most Patriotic Wear Award went to Lina Pagatpatan, who wore a kimona painted with Philippine flags.
"When I was young, I’ve devoted my life to my children. I worked hard to give them a bright future. When I joined Pusca, I realized that I should also give importance to myself. That’s what I’m doing right now and it makes me happy," enthused Lucy Miguelino, looking radiant in her sinamay gown embellished with sea shells.
Lola Maxima is still active with Prudential Life Insurance.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development spearheaded the National Elderly Filipino Week celebration which aimed to recognize the role of the country’s 5.2 million senior citizens in nation building.
"When you’re old, you become very sensitive. Little things matter most. I’m blessed to have children who love me unconditionally," lola Luz boasted.
To those (children) who neglect their parents, lola Luz has this to say: "Kung wala kami noon, nasaan kayo ngayon? Love your parents and make them feel important."
