By CESAR JOLITO III
Cadiz City has added another name to its growing list of celebrated centenarians as 101-year-old Maria Lumampao-Magbanua, fondly known as Lola Maria, was recognized for her remarkable longevity and lifetime of resilience.
Born on January 20, 1925, Lola Maria recently reached her 101st year, joining the ranks of the city’s oldest residents and becoming another symbol of strength and endurance for the local community.
Mayor Salvador “Bading” Escalante, Jr. described Lola Maria as one of Cadiz City’s prides, saying her long life reflects the resilience and enduring spirit of its people.
Lola Maria currently resides in Purok ILCO, Barangay Caduha-an and is among the city’s surviving centenarians, alongside 103-year-old Estelita “Lola Tiling” Alimpolos of Barangay Sicaba.
According to her family, Lola Maria spent much of her younger years managing the family’s leased farmland rather than working in the sugarcane fields. She was also known for her love of classic movies at the old Sampaguita Theater and for her fondness for sweets, cake, ice cream, and even soft drinks, while preferring meals prepared with little or no cooking oil.
Her great-granddaughter and primary caregiver, Kisshia Guen Magbanua, shared that Lola Maria was lovingly cared for by her husband, Felizardo Magbanua Sr., and was treated “like a princess” throughout their married life.
Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2023 and experiencing declining physical strength, Lola Maria continues to receive round-the-clock care from her family.
In recognition of her milestone, Lola Maria has received several longevity incentives under local and national programs. She was awarded P100,000 by the city government in February 2025 under City Ordinance No. 24-2023, which provides cash incentives for qualified senior citizens reaching 100 years old and an additional P50,000 annual reward for every succeeding year.
She also received P100,000 from the provincial government, and another P100,000 from President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. under Republic Act No. 11982, or the Expanded Centenarians Act of 2024.
Lola Maria’s life story stands as a testament to perseverance, family, and the rich history of Cadiz City, where generations of residents have witnessed decades of change while leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire the community./CCJ, WDJ