A TOTAL of 13,190 indigent senior citizens in Iloilo City have started receiving their social pension for the first and second quarters of the year.
Mayor Jose Espinosa III led the distribution of P3,000 each to 2,369 beneficiaries from Molo district at East Baluarte Gym on Tuesday, July 17.
The recipients also include 2,191 senior citizens from city proper who will receive their pension on Wednesday, July 18, at Veterans Gym; 1,471 from Mandurriao at Oñate Gym and 983 from Lapuz at Barrio Obrero Gym, both on July 19; 2,274 from La Paz on July 20 at Barrio Obrero Gym; 1,943 from Jaro on July 24 at Jaro Gym; and 1,959 on July 25 at Arevalo Gym.
The program is funded by the National Government through the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Western Visayas and City Social Welfare and Development Office.
“The elders in the society are the ones who need most attention and care. The government doesn’t want to see any of them suffering because of poverty. Growing old, they are becoming more prone to diseases and other health conditions. The amount given to them will be used for their medications, and healthcare needs,” Espinosa said.
Angelita Abiertas, 65, from Calumpang, Molo, said the amount will be spent for her daily needs.
“At my age, I am no longer capable of working to earn money. My children have their own families. I’ll use the money to buy food and medicine,” Abiertas said.
“I am very thankful for this help. I am going to share this with my grandchildren. I hope there will be more old people like us who can benefit from this program,” said Celia Derada, 64, from South San Jose, Molo. (PR)