Mrs. Mercado received a Certificate of Recognition, a Letter of Felicitation from the President of the Republic of the Philippines, and a cash gift of Php 100,000.00 from the said program.

Expressing her family’s gratitude, Mrs. Rose Mallonga, daughter of Mrs. Mercado, shared, “Salamat kaayo for the privilege and the honor you have given my mother. My mother is a very loving and nice person—generous, friendly, and very religious. I believe this is one of the reasons God granted her such longevity. Thank you—it is truly an honor for us to have you here with us.“

In addition, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Butuan City, through the Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO) presented by Hon. Victor Vicente Plaza, awarded Lola Sebastiana Php 50,000.00 as the city’s counterpart in recognizing her century of contributions to the community.

The awarding ceremony was graced by representatives from the Barangay Council of Barangay Bayanihan headed by Brgy. Chairperson Wilo Montero and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (Cluster , further emphasizing the community’s collective appreciation of Lola Sebastiana’s legacy.

The DSWD Field Office Caraga, along with the local government and community partners, reaffirms its commitment to recognizing and supporting our senior citizens, who continue to be pillars of strength and inspiration for future generations.