THE National Commission of Senior Citizens Regional Office (NCSC) in Davao, in collaboration with various government agencies, successfully launched the simultaneous Inaugural Cash Gift Distribution under Republic Act 11982 (Expanded Centenarians Act) to recognize and reward the invaluable contributions of senior citizens by providing them with financial assistance.
In addition to financial aid, the event provided essential government services aimed at improving senior citizens’ well-being and access to public programs.
PhilSys National ID and PhilHealth Konsulta Registration was conducted on-site, ensuring seniors could enroll in primary healthcare services for free consultations, diagnostics, and preventive care.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. emphasized their importance as mentors and guiding lights in society. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to their welfare by highlighting various benefits under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act, including discounts on utilities, healthcare, transportation, and medicine, as well as the ₱1,000 monthly pension for indigent seniors.
“Sa ilalim ng Expanded Senior Citizens Act, ang mga senior citizens ay may karapatang makakuha ng 5% o 20% discount sa iba’t ibang serbisyo. Kasama sa 5% senior discount ang tubig at kuryente kung hindi hihigit sa 30m³ na tubig o 100kWh ng kuryente ang konsumo. Makakakuha ng 20% discount ang ating senior citizens sa transportasyon, gamot, serbisyong pangkalusugan, at maging sa paglilibang,” Marcos said.
PBBM also urged families and younger generations to cherish, respect, and support the elderly, recognizing their legacy in shaping the nation’s progress.
Ensuring the efficient and timely distribution of benefits, Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (Osca) Head Lorenzo C. Borja explained that the Expanded Centenarian Program follows a structured monthly release cycle, with a cutoff every 15th of the month. Eligible seniors can avail of the benefit every five years upon reaching the designated milestone ages of 80, 85, 90, and 95.
“Monthly ang atong release ani. Katong celebrant nga wala naapil sa first batch, maapil ka sa second batch. Mag-cutoff ta every 15th day of the month. Para sa second batch nga i-release next month sa March.” Borja said.
Borja also said that in Davao City alone, the program is expected to benefit approximately 8,000 senior citizens, with funding secured and adjusted based on actual applications submitted to the National Commission. PIA DAVAO
