On January 29, 2026, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7 – Central Visayas hosted the second installment of Paghimamat, a dedicated homecoming event designed to honor former employees and support their transition into a healthy, meaningful retirement.

Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero highlighted that retirement is not an end, but a new chapter for nation-building, encouraging retirees to continue sharing their wealth of expertise and institutional memory to help the community in any way they can. To ensure the attendees are well-supported in this new phase of life, the program featured a panel of experts who provided actionable guidance on various aspects of senior well-being.

Ms. Jessica A. Silva from PhilHealth Regional Office 7 detailed the specific medical programs and healthcare assistance platforms available to retirees, ensuring they remain fully informed of their benefits. On the front of physical health, Nutritionist-Dietitian and SFP Focal Person Romilene Padilla emphasized the role of a balanced diet and consistent daily routines in maintaining vitality, while Dr. Maria Carmina Joyce Alferez, OB-GYN and Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Healthway Cebu Velez General Hospital, provided expert medical insights on proactive health management for seniors.

The sentiment of the day was captured by Ms. Marina Mendoza, a former CDWS employee from Dumaguete City. Speaking on behalf of the retirees, she expressed deep appreciation for Director Lucero and the Department’s unwavering commitment to providing guidance and a sense of belonging long after their formal years of service have concluded.

In his closing message, Assistant Regional Director for Administration Tonyson Luther S. Lee extended his deepest gratitude to the retirees for the years they gave, the sacrifices they made, and the lives they touched through public service. He also said their legacy lives on in the systems they strengthened, the people they mentored, and the values they upheld. Today is not just an activity but a heartfelt thank you.

The event underscores DSWD Field Office 7’s mission to foster a culture of gratitude and lifelong support for the dedicated civil servants who have spent their careers uplifting the lives of others across Central Visayas. ###