Manila (8 October) -- The country is celebrating the Elderly Filipino Week or "Linggo ng Nakatatandang Pilipino" from October 1-7, 2010 to raise public awareness on elderly welfare, with the theme "Nakatatanda: Tanglaw ng Bayan, Kaagapay sa Matuwid na Daan".

With the social welfare and development department leading the celebration, this year's activities commenced with the 'walk for life,' a walk participated in by an estimated 2,000 older persons from various organizations and sectors in Metro Manila. The said walk is aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle and wellness for senior citizens.

Other highlights of the Elderly Filipino Week were: 1. Dalaw Kalinga and visit to Visitorless, Indigent, Sick, Old (VISO) Prisoners in National Bilibid Prison, Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) and four homes for the elderly on October 2 and 4; 2. Sampung Ulirang Nakatatanda Awards by the Coalition of Services for the Elderly (COSE) on October 3; 3. Forum on RA 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 on October 4; 4. Painting Exhibit of the Works of National Artist Jose Blanco at Quezon City Sports Complex, E. Rodriquez Avenue, Quezon City on October 1 to 7; and 5. Setting-up of information booth on ESCA in a mall in Metro Manila.

The celebration is in line with Proclamation No. 470, issued by former President Fidel V. Ramos, declaring every first week of October as "Linggo ng Nakatatandang Pilipino" or the Elderly Filipino Week. It aims to raise public awareness on issues concerning the welfare of the older persons sector as well as highlight their contributions in nation building.