Supercentenarian Francisca Susano of Brgy. Oringao, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, the oldest person in the Philippines at age 124, passed away Nov. 22.
Kabankalan City Mayor Pedro Zayco said that Lola Iska was considered the oldest person in the Philippines, and the city and the provincial government of Negros Occidental are mourning her death.
Lola Iska was born on Sept. 11, 1897 in Kabankalan.
Zayco said her official declaration as the oldest person in the world at 124 years old was being validated by the Guinness World Records.
“Lola Iska will always remain as our inspiration and pride,” he added.
Marlene Susano, 45, said Lola Iska died in her sleep.
She celebrated her 124th birthday Sept. 11.
Lola Iska was a farmer, and had 14 children. Her oldest son died at age 99 in 2015. One of her daughters is still alive and claimed to be 104 years old.
Lola Iska earlier credited her longevity to her positive attitude, a healthy diet, and abstaining from alcohol. She also played the harmonica.
Kabankalan City public information officer Jake Carlyne Gonzales said the City Health Office has yet to determine the cause of her death.
But Gonzales added that Lola Iska reportedly did not exhibit any symptom of the viral illness before her passing.
The Susano family has yet to decide on the date of her burial.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday said they will arrange something for the family of Lola Iska, adding that she had inspired her family and bonded them together. – GB
