Aging Office program coordinator Walter Manglona said it was the first time they gave certificates in recognition of services rendered and valuable contributions to the council.
The certificates were signed by Department of Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Melvin Faisao and Office on Aging Director Rose Mondala.
Recognized were Teresita Sorroza, Rosario Ibanez, Alejandra Blas, Maryalen Conrad, Christiana Michael, Paula Mereb and Jacoba Asuncion.
During the presentation, Manglona reminded the manamko’ to respect their faith, beliefs and religion as long these will not violate the law.
The certificates recognize the accomplishments of the council officers, Mondala said.
Also yesterday, the congregates welcomed new members: Arsenio Alvarado, Mely Alvarado, Vicente Laniyo, Roger Hernandez, Leonides Marinas, Laura Marinas, Mely Molokai, Bernard Sebongil, Francisco Simeon, Ruby Sablan and Herman Faisao.
Likewise, the new council members headed by chairwoman Sorroza were officially presented to the congregates.
Sorroza, who presented the council’s plans and programs for fiscal year 2012, was accompanied by the other officers: vice chairwoman Maria Salinas; secretary Elena Villanueva; treasurer Christiana Michael; sergeant-at-arms Manuel Mesa; members Rita Reyes, Alejandra Blas, Meryalen Conrad and Siyau Muna.
Salinas encouraged congregates to refer to the council whatever issues they may have.
Sorroza, for her part, emphasized the importance of interaction and sharing ideas as well as respecting one another.
“I want the manamko’ to feel happy always when they come here to the center,” she said.
She reported that the council has $3,900 deposited in a bank, and this money can be used for various educational projects including off-island trips.
The council, she added, will discuss the proposal to allocate a certain percentage of their funds as financial assistance to the family of senior citizens who have just passed away.
