Manila, Dec. 10 -- 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 p...