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Elderly walk to kick off ‘Mes Man’amko’
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Posted on May 01 2012
About 36 congregates of the Aging Center took part in the Man’amko Health March held yesterday as part of the celebration of Older Americans Month/Mes Man’amko/Maramal Tuufey.
The congregates wore hats, used umbrellas, and brought towels to beat the heat as they walked toward Garapan Fishing Base from the 13 Fishermen’s Pavilion.
A vehicle at the center was on standby while the group, led by some six female man’amko holding the Older Americans Month banner, walked along the Beach Road pathway.
Some motorists who saw the man’amko during the walk honked their horns in support of the island’s elderly.
Jacoba Asuncion said she “almost gave up” because she thought the distance between the two points was far but was encouraged to continue by her fellow man’amko.
“I’m sweating but I feel very good. It’s a really good experience,” said Asuncion after the walk.
Another congregate, Pacita Angeles, said that walking has health benefits for the man’amko. “It’s a really good exercise for us and I’ll be glad to do it again,” added Angeles.
Aging coordinator Walter Manglona, who joined the walkers at the end point, noted that the other congregates who use canes or are in wheelchair had to remain behind at the center as they found it difficult to walk.
Manglona lauded all the man’amko who joined and finished the walk to the end.
“This is our first activity for the Older Americans Month and what better way to start it than by getting out there and walking to stay healthy,” he told Saipan Tribune. “Never underestimate the man’amko because they’re never too old to play,” referring to the theme for the monthlong celebration.
Saipan Seniors Advisory Council Teresita Sorroza said that while some of the congregates had weak and painful knees, they were still able to make it so they deserve to be recognized.
“They were very cooperative and by taking part in the event, they showed their support for the activities that have been lined up for May,” added Sorroza.
