Leoncio S. Satoros, 100,  of Barangay Bacungan, Magsaysay, Davao Del Sur shows off his Centenarian Certificate. Also in photo is DSWD focal person for older persons Angelic B. Paňa.

DAVAO City (DSWD XI) – “At least 81 Filipinos in the region have reached 100 years old and are entitled to benefit from the newly approved Republic Act 10868 or the Centenarians’ Act of 2016,” announced Assistant Director Ma. Vilia L. Vigil of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) during the culmination program on the celebration of Elderly Filipino Week on Monday.

DSWD will visit each of the centenarians and award them a Certificate of Recognition for their longevity and endurance, Director Vigil said.

DSWD records show that as of September this year, Eboc Mabayang Ongan of Barangay Dalag Lumot, Marilog District is the oldest in the region at 130 years. Trailing him are three 114 years of age all from Davao City –Vicenta Navarro of Talomo, Rosario Suriaga of Toril, and Rosa Verano of Calinan.

Further, of the 81 centenarians, 1 is 112 years old, 4 are 111, and 2 are 110 years.

Under RA 10868, all Filipinos who reach the age of 100 will receive a P100,000.00 cash incentive and a letter of felicitation from the President of the Philippines, whether they are residing in the Philippines or abroad.

They will also be awarded with a plaque of recognition and additional cash gift from their respective city or municipal government during the National Respect for Centenarians’ Day set on September 25 every year.

Filipino older persons are also honored with the annual observance of Elderly Filipino Week every first week of October. To help instill love and respect for senior citizens among the younger generation, this year’s celebration theme is Pagmamahal at Respeto ng Nakababata, Nagpapaligaya sa Nakatatanda. (DSWD)