The city government kicked off its four-day “Handog Pasasalamat for Senior Citizens” yearly event on Wednesday, honoring the elderly with Christmas gifts, a raffle draw, and special honors.

“Our senior citizens have dedicated their lives to building our community. The ‘Handog Pasasalamat’ is a heartfelt expression of our gratitude and a commitment to ensuring they enjoy a dignified and joyful Christmas season,” said Mayor Roderick Furigay, who led the program launch at the city gymnasium.

The launch brought an estimated 1,000 of the city’s 7,000 senior citizens, with each receiving a generous package containing essential items to help them celebrate the holiday season.

The package included a sack of rice, a grocery pack filled with necessities, medicine to support their well-being, and a cash gift of PHP1,000 each.

Adding to the excitement, a raffle with appliances as prizes brought extra cheer to the event.

During a special segment of the program, Furigay presented certificates of recognition and cash prizes to the city’s oldest residents.

The octogenarians (80-89 years old) were awarded PHP3,000 each, while the nonagenarians (90-99 years old) received P5,000 each, honoring their longevity and contributions to the city.

The distribution process is meticulously planned to ensure that all senior citizens across the city’s 45 barangays receive their gifts.

The beneficiaries expressed their deep gratitude for the support, recognizing that the gifts would greatly reduce their financial stress during the holiday season.

Furigay said the Handog Pasasalamat program not only provides material assistance but also serves as a reminder to the senior citizens that they are valued and cherished members of the community. (PNA)