First registered female architect in the Philippines turns 100

A woman who holds the distinction of being the first registered female architect in the Philippines has achieved another milestone as she turned 100 last week.

Muntinlupa City mayor Ruffy Biazon shared on Facebook that he awarded Aida Cruz-del Rosario a cash gift of PHP100,000 (US$1,790) on her birthday, as provided for under law.

Del Rosario was the first female architecture graduate of the University of Santo Tomas, one of the first architecture schools in the country. She is also recognized as the country’s first registered female architect.

Under Republic Act 10868 or the Centenarians Act of 2016, citizens who turn 100 years old and onwards are entitled to receive a cash gift of PHP100,000 and a congratulatory letter from the president.