A Negros Occidental resident who was believed to be the oldest living person in the country and the world passed away at her home in Barangay Camingawan, Kabankalan City, 6:45 p.m. Monday, November 22.
“It is with sadness in our heart when we received the news that our beloved Lola Francisca Susano passed away,” the Kabankalan City government announced Monday night.
Her granddaughter, Merlene Susano, told DIGICAST NEGROS Lola Iska died in her sleep after their evening prayers surrounded by 15 grandchildren.
She was sleeping while they were praying and took two deep breaths after they were done and died, Merlene said.
At about 3 p.m. Monday Lola Iska had difficulty breathing but after they massaged her with liniment she improved, her granddaughter added.
Lola Iska had 14 children, eight of whom are alive. She is also survived by more than 500 grand children, Merlene said.
“Lola Iska is considered the oldest person in Negros Occidental and the Philippines. Her official declaration as the oldest person in the world at 124 years old is currently being validated by the Guinness World Records,” the Kabankalan City government statement said.
Mayor Pedro Zayco, Vice Mayor Raul Rivera and all city officials as well as all the people of Kabankalan City condole and pray with the family of Lola Iska in their period of bereavement, the statement added.
“Lola Iska will always remain as our inspiration and pride,” the city officials said.
Susano celebrated her 124h birthday on September 11. She was a member of the Indigenous Peoples community of her village.
A plaque presented to her on her birthday by Commissioner Franklin Quijano of the National Commission on Senior Citizens stated that she was the oldest person in the world.*