Lolo in Laguna celebrates 101st birthday by helping those in need

A grandfather in Laguna celebrated his 101st birthday by helping those in need, straight from his own pockets.

According to Mark Salazar's report on "24 Oras," Thursday, Diego Veluz used his recent pension to buy 20 sacks of rice, chocolates, and bread to give out to others.

"I'm very happy because I know that the Lord is the one blessing me so I should share it to others," he said in a mix of English and Filipino, adding that part of his purpose is to introduce the Lord.

Veluz used to work as a farmer until fate allowed him to live in America with his family. He came back to the country with his savings when he was 90 years old.

Instead of using the money just for himself, he used it to build the Luisiana Adventist Elementary School.

"Mula nang maliit ako hanggang sa ako'y lumaki at nakatapos ng pag-aaral, tuloy-tuloy po ang kanyang pagtulong," said Wyeth Apejas, the school principal. "Marami rin po siyang scholars dito."

["From when I was young to when I grew up and finished studying, he never stopped helping. He also has a lot of scholars here."]

The school has then served as his home in the Philippines, together with Apejas' family.

While Veluz chose to share his blessings on his special day, those surrounding him, meanwhile, took the time to give him a celebration as they all treat him as their father.

"Siya nga po 'yung nakakatulong pa sa amin. 'Pag nagising po siya kahit sobrang aga pa, nagluluto na po siya kaya paggising po namin ay luto na, kakain nalang," Apejas said.

["He's even the one helping us. When he wakes up really early, he cooks so when we wake up, food is ready and we just have to eat."]

"Tunay na ipinakilala niya po sa amin ang Panginoon sa pamamagitan po ng [kanyang] buhay. Maraming salamat po," she added.

["He really introduced us to the Lord through his life. Thank you."]

Happy birthday, Lolo Diego!

—Franchesca Viernes/MGP, GMA News