NCSC strengthens presence in Western Visayas; tackles confusion over senior citizens’ benefits

Regional Director Ann Rapunzel “Rara” Ganzon (third from left) leads the National Commission of Senior Citizens–Region 6 in advancing programs that uphold the dignity and rights of senior citizens across Western Visayas. AJ PALCULLO/PN
Regional Director Ann Rapunzel “Rara” Ganzon (third from left) leads the National Commission of Senior Citizens–Region 6 in advancing programs that uphold the dignity and rights of senior citizens across Western Visayas. AJ PALCULLO/PN

ILOILO City – The newly established National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) regional office is taking decisive steps to assert its presence in Western Visayas as it begins implementing programs to protect and promote the welfare of the elderly — while also addressing widespread confusion over pension benefits and the boundaries of its mandate.

Regional Director Ann Rapunzel “Rara” Ganzon said that the NCSC’s creation under Republic Act No. 11350 marked a long-overdue move to give focus to a sector often overlooked in policymaking.

“Our congressmen and senators realized that it’s truly the right time to give special attention to these individuals, who are often referred to as the pillars of our homes, communities, and society. They deserve nothing but the best,” she said.

Building from the ground up

Although the NCSC was conceptualized in 2019, its rollout was delayed by the pandemic. In Western Visayas, formal operations only began in 2024, initially with just four personnel under one commissioner. By July 2025, regional directors were officially appointed, giving the office a firmer structure.

Ganzon, who assumed her post on August 1, 2025, recalled that her early months were spent establishing the regional office and coordinating with local governments.

“Prior to my arrival six months ago, our staff operated in less than ideal conditions, essentially ‘squatting’ at the Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of the Philippines (FSCAP) in Iloilo City. However, at the time I joined, we had established a much more welcoming and suitable office environment for our senior citizens,” she said.

The office has since focused on data gathering for the implementation of Republic Act No. 11982 or the Expanded Centenarian Act, which recognizes seniors upon reaching milestone ages of 80, 85, 90, and 95 years.

“Our priority was to identify seniors who will celebrate these milestone ages by March 17, 2024. This information would be critical in the subsequent implementation of support initiatives,” Ganzon explained.

By 2025, the NCSC began releasing funds for the expanded centenarian incentives, alongside the ₱100,000 cash reward program for those who reach 100 years old.

“Because sa programa ni DSWD, nagsaylo sa amon ang 100,000 centenarian or cash gift as reward… Gina-explain ko nga yara na sa aton (NCSC) the budget for 100 years old,” she clarified.

Clarifying pension misconceptions

One of the biggest hurdles the NCSC faces, Ganzon admitted, is the public misconception about pension programs.

Many senior citizens assume that the NCSC manages all pensions, including the social pension for indigent senior citizens, which remains under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

“The Social Pension and its regulations often confuse our senior citizens, and this has been one of the key challenges they encounter,” Ganzon said.

She added, “It’s not true nga may Universal Social Pension, it is a bill because it was passed in the Congress, but it’s not a law yet. Kay wala pa siya na approbahan sang Senate, tani kabay pa, once and for all, ang opisina, through my office, maathagan, ang pinalangga naton nga senior citizen nga para man ni bala sa tanan?”

DSWD-6 Regional Pension Unit Head Marien Grace T. Tamona clarified that only indigent seniors who meet the department’s criteria qualify for the existing ₱1,000 monthly aid.

Ang social pension for indigent senior citizens is not for all… So far, amo palang ni ang ara sa law naton,” Tamona said.

Ganzon noted that many seniors express frustration over delays, errors, and omissions in pension distribution lists.

“There are numerous complaints and clamor among the elderly, questioning why some individuals have been omitted or their names have disappeared from the list,” she said.

She urged those with concerns to visit their office directly for clarification.

“Our office is open to everyone, especially to those who are confused about these matters. The budget for Social Pension resides with DSWD, not NCSC,” she emphasized.

A growing advocacy for dignity

Despite its youth as an institution, the NCSC has begun carving its role as the primary advocate for senior citizens’ welfare — from enforcing existing laws to drafting new policies that promote active and healthy aging. It also serves as an advisory body to Congress and the President on issues affecting the elderly.

Ganzon said her office will continue to push for better understanding and coordination between agencies to ensure seniors get the benefits they deserve.

“Senior citizens often feel distressed, questioning why they have not received their social pensions or why they are facing financial hardship,” she said. “In my opinion, it would be more beneficial if the budget allocated for flood control were redirected to support our senior citizens, who genuinely deserve this assistance.”/PN

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