MANILA, Philippines — Makati rewarded on Wednesday 26 city employees who had worked for several decades with cash.

Mayor Abby Binay led the ceremonies for the Loyalty Service Award for 26 employees, nine of whom have worked for the city for 40 years and 17 for over 30 years.

Those who worked for 40 years received P35,000 in cash and those who worked for 30 years received P25,000 each.

The employees will continue to receive P5,000 every five years thereafter while still in service.

“We are proud of the long service of these employees, and this award is our way of demonstrating our appreciation for their hard work and dedication. We hope that this will encourage others to perform their duties with the same level of commitment,” Binay said in a statement.

First launched in 2016, the Loyalty Service Award is given to city employees who have rendered 10 continuous years of public service.

Meanwhile, Binay also paid tribute and bade goodbye to 102 employees retiring this year.

“We are forever grateful for your hard work and sacrifice over the years,” she said.

Also present were Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo; Reps. Luis Campos and Kid Peña; Neil-San Patag, head of the Human Resources Development Office, Director Philip Apostol of the National Capital Region office of the Civil Service Commission.