A devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Burabod, San Antonio, Northern Samar, Philippines, celebrated her 100th birthday on June 12. The centenarian Egleseria Baybayon Abayon-Mahinay, affectionately known as Yaya Serya by her loved ones and friends, has been a pillar of faith in her family and community since her baptism at 16.
At 25, Serya married Rafael Pelagia Mahinay. Together, they raised their only daughter, Editha Mahinay. Editha later married and had a daughter, Ernielyn Mahinay, Serya’s only grandchild.
Tragically, Editha passed away from an illness, leaving Ernielyn in the loving care of her grandparents, Lola Serya and Lolo Rafael.
Serya’s family lived simply on their farm in Northern Samar, where they cultivated a variety of crops and coconut trees. They primarily produced copra — dried coconut kernels — which they sold to industries for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical purposes, providing a modest but stable income.
Through these means of livelihood, Serya and her husband were able to send Editha and, later, Ernielyn to college. Not only could the couple provide for the two with the education they chose; they also raised them both as God-fearing children and leaders of their church.
Serya’s faith and principles in life as an Adventist deeply influenced all of her family, guiding them through challenges, whether in decision-making or handling conflicts.
They remain steadfast in their faith, even when faced with the demands of school and work that conflict with their Sabbath observance.
“Even as adults, we still seek Lola Serya’s counsel and guidance,” Ernielyn shared. “Whenever we go somewhere for school and work, she always sends us off with reminders to stand firm in our faith.”
From her youth until present, Serya actively supported evangelistic efforts and church activities. She even traveled between islands with different groups to offer songs during health and gospel campaigns.
Serya did not pursue higher education but graduated with high honors during her elementary days at an Adventist school (now Springview Academy) in Northern Samar. As proof of her intellectual capacities, Lola Serya can still recite the valedictory address she delivered during her elementary school graduation. Her memory is still sharp, and her cognitive abilities have never deteriorated.
“In her time, during World War II, grade six was already at a remarkable level. Back then, only a few got college diplomas,” Ernielyn explained.
Stressing the importance of education, Serya made sure Editha and Ernielyn could complete a college degree. She showed them examples of determination and ways of survival by providing for their needs, even after her husband’s health declined and she had to do it alone.
When asked about her secret to longevity and health, Serya attributes it to her life on the farm and a simple diet of fruits, root crops, and vegetables. She eats no meat except for fish, which are abundant on the island where she lives. She remains active, maintaining her independence.
“Lola still does simple household chores like preparing meals and washing dishes,” Ernielyn shared. “She never sits around and allows us to serve her.”
Serya’s 100th birthday serves as an inspiration to others, according to those who know her. “It showcases the benefits of a healthy diet and a life rooted in simplicity, faith, and family. Lola Serya has always been tough against life challenges. And most of all, her faithfulness in serving the Lord has never faltered. She still comes to church regularly.”
In honor of the centenarian, the administrators and officers of the Adventist Church in Samar congratulated Serya and her family. “She is an inspiration and a source of pride, not only to the Adventist Church in Samar but to the entire Adventist community,” regional church leaders said.
The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.
