The Navotas City government distributed cash incentives to centenarian beneficiaries under the Expanded Centenarian Act, the city government announced on Wednesday, March 19.
Senior citizens avail of the free medical check-up and claimed their cash incentives from the city government. (Photos from Navotas City-PIO)
Beneficiaries who are 80, 85, 90, and 95 years old received P10,000.
Fifty-three senior citizens who reached these milestone ages between March 17 and December 2024 also received free medical check-ups, medicines, and basic laboratory tests.
According to the city’s Public Information Office (PIO), the National Commission of Senior Citizens said that the city government is the first local government unit in Metro Manila to implement the initiative.
Rep. Toby Tiangco, who is the co-author of the Expanded Centenarian Act, emphasized the importance of recognizing and honoring senior citizens.
"Ang ating mga nakatatanda ay nag-alay ng maraming taon ng kanilang buhay para sa kanilang pamilya at komunidad. Nararapat lang na kilalanin at suportahan sila habang sila ay kapiling natin (Our elderly have dedicated many years of their lives to their families and communities. It is only fitting that we acknowledge and support them while they are with us),” he said.
Tiangco also emphasized that the initiative goes beyond financial assistance.
"Hindi lang ito tungkol sa pera kundi pagpapakita ng pagpapahalaga at respeto sa ating mga lolo at lola. Ang bawat benepisyo ay isang pasasalamat sa kanilang naging papel sa ating lipunan (This is not just about money; it is about showing appreciation and respect to our grandparents. Each benefit is a gesture of our gratitude for their role in our society),” he added.
He said the local government remains committed to improving the lives of senior citizens.
"Patuloy tayong maghahanap ng paraan upang mapabuti ang kanilang buhay at matiyak na sila ay maalagaan sa kanilang katandaan (We will continue to find ways to improve their living conditions and ensure they are well cared for in their old age),” he said. (Jhoana Mae Delfin)