About 249 centenarians in Central Visayas have recently received their Letter of Felicitation signed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte congratulating them for their longevity.

The text of the letter starts with the name of the centenarian and his/her address.

In the body of the letter it states, “Turning a century old is the biggest milestone a person can achieve. You are very special and honored for all the great experiences and accomplishments that life has given you. May you be surrounded with happy memories from your family.”

The letter also quoted former US President Abraham Lincoln, “It is not the years in your life that counts, but the life in your years.”

President Duterte ended the letter by stating “May God continue to bless you with more years and good health.”

The letter was placed in a certificate frame.

This honoring and granting of additional benefits to centenarians is stipulated in Republic Act (RA) 10868 or the Centenarians Act of 2016, stating that all Filipinos, who have reached 100 years old and above, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad shall be honored with a Letter of Felicitation from the President of the Philippines and a cash gift in the amount of one hundred thousand pesos (Php 100,000.00).

All of the 249 centenarians had already received their cash gift last year.

Of the 249 centenarians who have received their cash gift, 128 are from Cebu, 75 are from Bohol while 38 and 8 are from Negros Oriental and Siquijor, respectively. ###