At 90, Rosalina Ferrer, called fondly “Nanay Gading” by her children and grandchildren, continues to sell fish at the Magsaysay Fish Market in Dagupan City.

Born on November 14, 1935, Nanay Gading still keeps pace with younger vendors. She can slice 40 kilos of tuna with ease and shows no special diet, enjoying meat, rice, and even soft drinks.

“Hindi, walang diet. Pag nagugutom ako, kahit ano, kakainin ko,” she said.

She balances her busy market life with seven to eight hours of sleep daily and does not rely on maintenance medications. She even manages household chores like laundry.

Asked why she still works at her age, she replied candidly:

“Ay, wala akong magawa sa bahay. Mamamatay ako sa bahay. Nakaupo lang, kakain.”

Nanay Gading started selling fish since the 1960s. Her business has since been passed on to her children and grandchildren. She attributes her long life to being kind and caring to others.

Her family admits she should stay at home because of her age, but she fell ill when she rested in recent months.

“Noong nasa bahay, nanghihina, inuubo. Naospital pa,” Jennelyn Velasco, her granddaughter, said.

At the market, she is assisted carefully, especially when customers crowd around. Her dedication and care continue to inspire her children and grandchildren.

This National Women’s Month, her family expressed their love and gratitude.

“Nay, love na love kita. Alam mo ‘yan. Di ko lang nasasabi sa’yo. Pero, inar-aro kita, Ma, ‘Nay, Mommy. I love you,” Velasco said.