The soft glow of morning light filters through the curtains of a modest home in Quirino Hill, carried by a cool summer breeze of March, gently illuminating the routines of Ililan H. Terre. The rustle of leaves outside and the patter of her dog’s paws across the floor mark the start of her day. To some, it may seem solitary. But for Ililan, solitude is balanced by care that reaches her from all directions, her family, friends, a loyal pet, and government programs that step in when she needs them most.
At 71, Ililan has learned that life’s joys often come quietly, in the gestures of those who remember her, check in on her, and share her world, even from afar. Though she lives alone, Ililan is never truly alone. Her children, friends, and relatives visit regularly, bringing conversation, laughter, and care. And in the quiet moments, her loyal dog keeps her company, a faithful presence in the rhythm of her days. These circles of care, both human and furry, sustain her.
“Madalas akong mag-isa, pero nai-enjoy ko pa rin ang buhay ko, kasama ang aking alagang aso. Palagi naman akong minomonitor ng mga anak ko, pati mga kaibigan ko at kapitbahay namin,” she shared.
Though her children now have homes of their own, they make it a point to check on her, helping her manage her medications and offering constant reassurance. Relatives come by with gestures of kindness, sharing meals, stories, or simply their presence. For Ililan, these visits are more than company, they are affirmations that she is valued, remembered, and loved. These interactions form a circle of care that sustains her spirit, turning quiet moments into reminders that she belongs.
Recently, her family has begun considering an arrangement for a relative to stay with her, an important step to ensure that their mother continues to be safe and cared for.
Her friends also play a vital role in her life. They bring joy and guidance. These friendships create a network of support, reminding her that even in moments of solitude, she is not alone.
Unexpectedly, she narrated that it was through a friend, also an AICS beneficiary, that she learned about the program.
“Mabuti talaga at sinabihan ako ng kaibigan kong beneficiary ng programa,” she said with joy.
The Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has been transformative for Ililan. She manages her daily realities of her condition that could feel overwhelming without support. That’s where AICS program has made a difference, bringing another care – the “maagap at mapagkalingang serbisyo” to her life. Through AICS, she received medical assistance for her high blood pressure, allowing her to maintain her health without the stress of financial burden.
“Noong natapos ko nang ayusin iyong requirements para sa pag-avail ng medical assistance, pumunta kami agad ng kaibigan kong beneficiary dito sa sinabi niyang opisina ng AICS, ang Crisis Intervention Section. Nakakatuwa dahil ang bilis lang pala ng proseso dito. Akala ko matagal kaya medyo hesitant akong gawin noong una. Buti na lang at nakinig ako sa kaibigan ko. Masaya ako at naging isa na rin akong benepisyaryo,” she recalled.
Beyond practical help, AICS provides her the dignity, reassurance, and the confidence to continue living independently. Through this DSWD program, women like Ililan are empowered to prioritize their health and well-being, even in their later years.
This Women’s Month, her story celebrates how care, big or small, empowers women to live with dignity, hope, and joy. Her life is sustained by circles of care: family who love and guide, friends who encourage and connect, a loyal pet that comforts her, and AICS, which ensures her health. Together, they demonstrate how care, may it be practical, emotional, or compassionate, uplifts women and allows them to thrive despite challenges.
Ililan’s journey shows that even the quietest lives are held together by care. In every visit, every kind word, and every helping hand, she is reminded that she matters. Through the support of her loved ones and the assistance of AICS, she moves through each day with strength and hope. In the comfort of these circles, she is truly remembered. Her story is a simple but powerful reminder how care changes everything, how this care can sustain life, nurture strength, and celebrate women this March and beyond. # DSWD FIELD OFFICE CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, MAYROSE U. CARIÑO
