In a heartwarming initiative to bridge the generational divide, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched the ‘Apo Ko: Kwento ni Lolo’t Lola, Gabay ng Kabataan’ project. This program, which translates to ‘My Grandchild: Stories from Grandpa and Grandma, Guide to Youth,’ was unveiled at the Haven for the Elderly in Tanay, Rizal. The project aims to create meaningful connections between the elderly residing in DSWD’s care facilities and young children aged 4 to 5 from child development centers.
Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized the project’s significance, stating that it honors the wisdom of the elderly as a societal treasure and underscores their role in guiding the youth, who represent the nation’s future. Through this initiative, the elderly are given a platform to share their life experiences and instill valuable lessons in the younger generation.
The ‘Apo Ko’ project features a ‘Dream Team’ of grandparents from the Haven for the Elderly and the Golden Reception and Action Center (GRACES), who will lead storytelling sessions for the children. Additionally, interactive workshops will be conducted, allowing the elderly and children to collaborate on creative projects that merge traditional skills with modern technology.
Tanay Mayor Rafael Tanjuatco praised the DSWD for this innovative project, noting its potential to benefit children by reducing their reliance on gadgets. Lolo Jaime Alfonso, a member of the Dream Team, expressed gratitude for the project, highlighting its importance for the mental health of the elderly and their ability to share with the young.
Lola Luisa, another Dream Team member, shared her joy in participating in the program, emphasizing its role in preserving social values such as respect and love for elders, self, others, and God. Pauline Batac, a parent of a participating child, was pleasantly surprised by the program, which rekindled memories of her own bonding moments with her grandfather.
As the pilot implementation progresses, the DSWD aims to establish this project as a model for fostering mutual respect and nurturing intergenerational relationships across the nation.