Makati’s 42nd centenarian gets P100K cash gift, plaque, bouquet

Mayor Abby Binay welcomes Salvacion Fantonia into the city’s circle of centenarians. —contributed photo

Salvacion Fantonia, Makati City’s 42nd centenarian, had a special guest on Monday: Mayor Abby Binay who handed her a check for P100,000.

On top of the cash incentive, Fantonia also received a plaque of recognition and a floral bouquet from Binay who went to her house in Barangay West Rembo.

Fantonia, who celebrated her 100th birthday on June 22, remains in good health and can move around using a walker, according to her family.

When she became a widow in 1959, she supported her four children by becoming a laundry woman. She also took on odd jobs such as selling pan de sal and newspapers in addition to polishing shoes.

“I consider it a rare privilege to be able to somehow express our gratitude and appreciation for our eldest residents, whose contributions to our progress are immeasurable,” Binay said.

City Ordinance No. 2012-099 entitles Makati senior citizens holding a Blu Card to a one-time P100,000 cash gift upon reaching 100 years old.

To be eligible, one must meet the criteria set by the city social welfare department.

The recipient must be a Filipino citizen; a resident of Makati; should have turned 100 years old between January and December of the current year; and a holder of Blu and White Cards (city social welfare cards) for at least five years.