CAPIZ — A total of 133 senior citizens in Roxas City, Capiz received cash gifts under a government program aimed at supporting and honoring the elderly.
The financial assistance was facilitated by the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) in Western Visayas through the Expanded Centenarians Act Cash Benefits Program.
Republic Act No. 11982, signed into law in 2024, expanded the original Centenarians Act of 2016 to provide cash incentives to older Filipinos. Under the law, beneficiaries aged 80, 85, 90, and 95 receive P10,000 each, while those who reach 100 years old are granted P100,000, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad.
In a local radio interview, Eddie Dela Cruz, head of the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) in Roxas City, said the program primarily benefits senior citizens aged 80 and above, particularly those reaching milestone ages.
Of the 133 recipients, 101 were octogenarians (aged 80 to 89) and 12 were nonagenarians (aged 90 to 99). Each beneficiary received P10,000, which may be used for daily needs, healthcare, and other essential expenses.
Dela Cruz assured the public that the distribution of cash gifts is conducted with integrity and transparency, with funds directly handed to qualified beneficiaries to ensure proper use.
He also encouraged residents to coordinate with the OSCA for any inquiries or concerns regarding the program, noting that the office remains committed to providing prompt and responsive assistance to senior citizens and their families.
The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to recognizing the contributions of the elderly and ensuring they receive adequate support for a more comfortable and dignified life./PN
