Beauty  with a heart

As models of  the Models’ Association of Cebu, we have this strong belief of producing models who do not just look good in print or on the ramp, but also as real people who do their part in helping those in need. We believe that it is very important to give back the blessings that we have received.

Following our tradition of visiting the charitable institutions we support, together with our agents Chicoy Tomol and Roger Alferez and make up artist Jesse Glova, we went to the Sisters of Mary Home for the Aged on one of our yearly visits. We brought with us sacks of rice, adult diapers and snacks for the lolas.

Upon arriving at the Home for the Aged, we were ushered in the Sisters into the dining room of the resident lolas. We planned to make do without the usual “mini fashion show” for the lolas and immediately gave them snacks, but it seemed that they expected a short entertainment program. Good thing Jesse is a professional singer also, so he entertained the lolas with a few Cebuano love songs. It was such a heart felt moment for all of us as the  lolas sang along with him, while wiping away tears falling softly. It seemed that the two song numbers were not enough for the lolas. Before we knew it, we the female models also rendered a song with the male models rapping in the background. We could not be sure though if our audience was entertained or disturbed by our voices. Nevertheless, it was worth the try—A for effort. (Though our agent Chicoy strongly advised us to stick to modeling.) After our short presentation, it was time to distribute the spaghetti and juices to the lolas. While some of the models stayed in the dining area to assist the lolas and chat with them, I, along with two others, went to the different rooms in the Home to spoon feed the bed-ridden lolas. I went beside Lola Quiling and looked down at her tiny frame. I then began coaxing her to eat. As I was giving her tiny portions of spaghetti, I realize I was not only feeding Lola Quiling but I was also feeding my soul. It feels good to be able to help out in this little way in making the lolas feel loved. Their happiness upon seeing us again every time, tugs a string in our hearts, too.  I could not help but feel for them who are left at a Home for Elders and seldom getting visits from their families and loved ones. I vowed that I would never let my loved ones suffer from the same loneliness.

It was not long before it was time to leave. So amidst hugs and kisses and promises of coming back again, we bade our beloved lolas goodbye. It is a poignant moment for all of us every time we come for a visit. But we would always like to leave with smiles in our faces and good feelings in our hearts. As Lola Nita once said to me in our previous visit, it’s not only good for them that we visit, it’s also good for us, so we get reminded as to where we will be going. Such wise words from Lola Nita, but I pray not prophetic.