The woman who became the first registered female architect in the Philippines turned 100 years old on Thursday, 11 August.
Aida Cruz Del Rosario made history when she entered the University of Santo Tomas’ (UST) College of Architecture as its first female student. Aside from becoming the first female graduate of the architecture school in 1947, Del Rosario also placed seventh in the licensure exams for architects.
She paired up with her engineer husband, Jose del Rosario, in designing and constructing multiple projects across the country, including the early University of Baguio.
In a Facebook post, Muntinlupa mayor Ruffy Biazon announced that he awarded Del Rosario a P100,000 cash gift from the Muntinlupa local government through its Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA). “Happy 100th, Lola Aida!,” Biazon greeted the centenarian.
Muntinlupa’s cash award to Del Rosario is in pursuance of the Centenarians Act of 2016, otherwise known as Republic Act 10868.
The act mandates the government to honor Filipino citizens 100 years old and above with a P100,000 cash gift and a congratulatory letter from the President to recognize their contributions to the country.