Mandaue City honors three centenarians

CEBU, Philippines — At least three senior citizens who have reached the age of 100 were honored by the Mandaue City government, each receiving a P100,000 cash gift and a certificate of recognition.

The centenarians—Esperanza Brillantes of Barangay Subangdaku, Fausta Fernandez of Barangay Labogon, and Magdalena Jayme of Barangay Canduman—were recognized during a ceremony held on December 22 for reaching the milestone age and for the inspiration they continue to provide to their families and communities.

On behalf of Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano, the cash assistance and certificates were distributed by Councilor Jimmy Lumapas, chairperson of the City Council’s Committee on Social Services, and Councilor Atty. Joel Seno. They were assisted by personnel from the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA)–Mandaue, who facilitated the distribution and documentation of the benefits.

City officials said the recognition is part of the local government’s continuing program to honor elderly residents who have significantly contributed to the city’s social and cultural fabric. The initiative also aims to underscore the importance of respecting and caring for senior citizens, particularly those who have reached exceptional longevity.

In a statement, Mayor Ouano described the centenarians as “living testaments to strength, faith, and love that help build strong families and communities.” He said their lives continue to inspire not only their families but the entire Mandauehanon community.

“On behalf of the City of Mandaue, we extend this recognition and support as a way of expressing our gratitude, respect, and affection for our centenarians,” Ouano said.

The mayor added that honoring centenarians allows the city government to acknowledge their sacrifices and the values they have passed on to younger generations, noting that their life stories reflect resilience and perseverance across different chapters of the city’s history.

Aside from the cash gift from the city government, the centenarians are also entitled to receive similar incentives from the provincial and national governments in accordance with existing laws granting benefits to senior citizens who reach the age of 100.

Also present during the ceremony were OSCA–Mandaue assistant administrative specialists Vicente Domasian Jr. and Rolando Ceniza, along with other OSCA personnel, who coordinated with the families of the centenarians and ensured the smooth release of benefits.

City officials reiterated their commitment to sustaining programs that promote the welfare and well-being of senior citizens, emphasizing that Mandaue City remains steadfast in recognizing the vital role of the elderly in shaping the community’s identity and values. (CEBU NEWS)