A story of unwavering hope and community effort culminated in a tearful reunion in Barangay Maticaa, Ormoc City, Leyte. After nearly three decades of being missing, Saturnina B. Miyao, affectionately called Nanay Saturnina, has finally returned home to her family.
From Streets to Shelter: The Journey to Recovery
Before her remarkable homecoming, Nanay Saturnina lived as a street dweller in Barangay Tabok, Mandaue City, Cebu. Her bed was made of cardboard, and her only constant companion was her cat, Eking. Her situation came to the attention of local authorities after she was noticed by a bank in the area.
The Mandaue City Social Welfare Services (CSWS) immediately took on her case and endorsed it to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7's Pag-abot Program. Through their coordinated efforts, Nanay Saturnina was provided temporary shelter and care at Gasa sa Gugma, a non-government organization, while the search for her family continued.
As part of the reintegration process, she underwent physical and psychological evaluation and was diagnosed with T/C psychotic behavior. Despite her condition, she showed signs of joy at the shelter by participating in activities and helping other elderly residents.
The Long-Awaited Reunion
With the crucial assistance of the LGU Ormoc City, her family was finally identified and located. Her nephew, Jeramie Dela Cruz, who also cares for her senior citizen siblings Jose and Salome, willingly accepted her. Jeramie shared that the family had long understood her condition and never lost hope of seeing her again.
On September 11, 2025, DSWD 7 Pag-abot Social Worker Irene Hampac called the family with the life-changing news that Nanay Saturnina had been found in Mandaue City. "The family immediately said, without any doubt, that they were ready to accept her," Hampac stated.
The official reintegration took place on November 27, 2025. Accompanied by the DSWD 7 Pag-abot Team and LGU Mandaue City, she was brought to Ormoc and received by DSWD 8 – Eastern Visayas and LGU Ormoc City. In a deeply moving moment, Nanay Saturnina did not immediately recognize her older sibling. But when her sibling said, "It's me, Inday," memories slowly returned, filling everyone present with tears of joy.
A New Chapter with Continued Support
Now safely home, the family has been provided with livelihood assistance to support their new beginning. Furthermore, Nanay Saturnina is receiving the necessary medication to ensure the continuous care of her health.
The story of Nanay Saturnina is a powerful testament to the strength of hope, the importance of community unity, and the impact of coordinated government social services. It is a long journey that has finally ended with the sweetest of words: "pauli" (homecoming).
