2 centenarians to miss award rites

KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines—Formal recognition as centenarians in time for North Cotabato’s 100th founding year in September came late for two of the oldest surviving persons in the province.

Tabeta Gamueda, 102, of Kabacan town, died on June 30 while Carlos Melchor, 113, of Mlang town, died on July 1, according to Ronald Montero, chair of a search committee for centenarians.

Their ages have been verified, Montero said, and their deaths have brought sadness because the province lost two of its treasures. Melchor was credited for his role in the restoration of peace and order in Mlang by fighting against Moro rebels.

Montero said the two were still on the list of centenarian-awardees for the Sept. 1 centennial rites. Their families will receive their cash gifts of P10,000 each while the oldest centenarian will get P100,000 cash and a plaque of recognition.

The awards will be handed out by Gov. Emmylou Talino-Mendoza and Bb. Pilipinas-Universe MJ Lastimosa. Williamor Magbanua, Inquirer Mindanao