Celebrating the Season of Joy and Unity Through Song:
The Christmas season of 2025 brought forth a beautiful tradition as the Surigao City and Surigao del Norte Golden Mentors Association Inc. organized their annual Christmas Caroling activity. This heartwarming program exemplifies the spirit of fellowship and community service that has defined our organization since our founding in February 1998.
As we reflect on the words of Luke 2:10-11, "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord,'" we are reminded of the true meaning of Christmas – spreading joy, hope, and goodwill to our community.
Extending Warm Christmas Greetings to Our Local Leaders:
This year's Christmas caroling held special significance as we visited the Sangguniang Panlungsod to extend our heartfelt Christmas greetings and wishes for good health to all members headed by the Honorable Alfonso S. Casurra, City Vice Mayor. Our retired educators, with voices filled with experience and wisdom, sang traditional Filipino Christmas carols that echoed through the halls of our local government offices.
The Golden Mentors' visit to the Sangguniang Panlungsod represents more than just a seasonal tradition – it symbolizes the vital connection between our organization and the local government unit of Surigao City. This activity strengthens our partnership and demonstrates our continued participation in the civic life of our beloved city, even in our retirement years.
Celebrating Excellence in Local Governance:
During our Christmas caroling visit, we had the distinct honor of congratulating the Local Government of Surigao City for achieving the prestigious recognition as the MOST OUTSTANDING SANGGUNIAN 2025 legislative awards NATIONAL FINALIST. This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication and excellence of our local leaders in serving the people of Surigao City.
As retired educators who have devoted our lives to excellence in public service, we understand the commitment required to achieve such recognition. The Golden Mentors Association proudly acknowledges this outstanding accomplishment, which brings honor not only to our city but to the entire Caraga region.
Strengthening Community Bonds Through Cultural Traditions:
Our Christmas caroling activity aligns perfectly with the mission of the Golden Mentors Association to promote fellowship, wellness, and community engagement among retired educators in Surigao del Norte. As enshrined in Republic Act 9994, the Expanded Senior Citizens Act, senior citizens like our members deserve recognition and respect for their continued contributions to society.
The participation of our members in this caroling activity demonstrates that retirement does not diminish our capacity to serve and connect with our community. Through our voices raised in song, we continue to be active participants in the cultural and social fabric of Surigao City.
Biblical Inspiration and Community Service:
Drawing inspiration from Matthew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven," our Christmas caroling serves as a beacon of hope and joy in our community. Our retired teachers, who once shaped young minds in classrooms across Surigao del Norte, now use their voices to spread Christmas cheer and maintain vital connections with local government officials.
This activity also reflects our commitment to the principles outlined in RA 7432 and DepEd policies on teacher retirement benefits, recognizing that our contributions to society continue well beyond our formal teaching careers.
Fostering Intergenerational Connections:
The Christmas caroling program creates opportunities for meaningful interactions between our seasoned educators and current public servants. These exchanges foster mutual respect and understanding while preserving the rich cultural traditions of Filipino Christmas celebrations in the Caraga region.
Our presence at the Sangguniang Panlungsod during the holiday season serves as a reminder of the continuity of public service – from our years in the classroom to our current role as advocates for senior citizen welfare and community development in Surigao City.
Health and Wellness Through Community Engagement:
Participating in Christmas caroling activities contributes significantly to the health and wellness of our members. The physical activity of visiting various offices, the mental stimulation of memorizing songs, and the social interaction with fellow members and community leaders all promote the holistic well-being that the Golden Mentors Association champions.
As we continue to advocate for the rights and welfare of retired educators under the framework of Philippine senior citizen legislation, activities like Christmas caroling demonstrate that active community participation remains an essential component of healthy aging and meaningful retirement.
