To give due recognition for their longevity, at least four centenarians in the city have received cash incentives and recognition from the Department of Social Welfare and Development and City Government, Monday at Jade Hall, Xevera Lot Only in Barangay Tabun.
Representatives from the regional DSWD and city officials led by Mayor Marino Morales turned over P100,000 each to Encarnacion Tiglao of Barangay Poblacion; Leocadia Pineda of Dapdap and Miguela Almaden of Dau, all age 100 years old.
The immediate family of Mercedes Punsalan of Barangay Poblacion who died earlier at the age of 102 also received the cash award on her behalf.
“Masaya po ako at hanggang ngayon ay kasama pa rin natin ang ating mga centenarians. Mahalin at alagaan po nati sila dahil sila ang treasures ng ating buhay,” Morales said.
Joining Morales in the distribution of cash gifts are Vice Mayor Christian Halili, Councilors Atty. Gerald Aquino, Rox Peña, Dan Bayani, Bok Tiglao and Jerry Basilio, CSWD Head Josephine Basilio-Tanglao and Senior Citizen Affairs Office Head Engracia Dizon.
Republic Act No. 10868 or the “Centenarians Act of 2016” signed into law by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in June 2016, states all Filipinos who have reached the age of 100, whether residing in the country or abroad, shall receive a cash award of P100,000 from the national government as a “centenarian gift.” Aside from cash, they will also receive a letter of felicitation signed by President Rodrigo Duterte and posthumous plaque of recognition for deceased centenarians.