Vice President Sara Duterte expressed admiration and respect for a centenarian who celebrated his birthday Monday (July 10).

The 100-year-old Teofilo Gamutan, Davao City’s oldest war veteran, was honored for the patriotism, bravery, and leadership that he has shown during World War II.

“I am here to honor a patriot.,” Duterte said before the families, friends and co-veterans.

Gamutan’s family threw a birthday party for the former commanding officer of the Headquarters Company of the 84th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army Reserve in Bohol during World War II.

“Let us not forget people like Sir Teofilo who is an epitome of a strong, brave, and a patriot. Whose love for the country is immeasurable,” Duterte said.

Gamutan, fondly called Lolo Filo, is also the oldest of the four remaining war veterans in Davao City.

Duterte said that through Lolo Filo, she learned a lot about her late grandfather, Gov. Vicente Duterte, who died 10 years before she was born.

“We look at you today, and we can sense the bravery of your soul and the pride in your heart as someone who fought for the Philippines,” she added.

Last year, Duterte also visited Gamutan during his 99th birthday and asked him about his secret to a long life.

“He told me that the secret to long life is patience. To let go of anger and always be happy,” she said. (PNA)