Dominican Republic honors seniors with annual awards

President Luis Abinader led the seventh annual ceremony for the ‘Protector of the Aging Person’ and ‘Senior Citizen’ awards in the Dominican Republic. The event, held at the National Palace, honors the contributions and altruism of the elderly population.

Ellis Pérez, a 90-year-old communicator and tourism professional, received the ‘Senior Citizen of the Year’ award for his lifelong dedication to public service and media. Additionally, the ‘Protector of the Aging Person’ award was granted to Sor María Ciriaca Almonte Vélez, director of the Hogar Nuestra Señora del Carmen in Higüey, for her 84 years of humanitarian work providing care to vulnerable seniors.

Separately, the NTD Foundation held its fourth annual Julia Awards, recognizing seven individuals over the age of 70 for their significant contributions to medicine, education, community development, and environmental conservation in Dominican society.