ILOILO – The Iloilo provincial government has started distributing cash incentives to nearly 2,000 elderly Ilonggos under its expanded recognition program for octogenarians, nonagenarians, and centenarians, reinforcing its commitment to senior citizen welfare and social protection.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), led by Acting Provincial Government Department Head Rani Melvi Cuarte, began last week the provincewide distribution of monetary incentives to qualified elderly beneficiaries.
For this year’s implementation, the provincial government identified 1,615 octogenarians aged 85, 205 nonagenarians aged 95, and 45 centenarians aged 100 and above who will receive financial assistance and recognition from the provincial government.
Each octogenarian and nonagenarian will receive P5,000, while centenarians will get P20,000 under the program.
The initiative is being implemented under Provincial Ordinance No. 2020-216, or the ordinance establishing monetary awards and recognition for qualified octogenarians, nonagenarians, and centenarians in Iloilo Province.
Provincial officials said the program highlights the administration’s continuing recognition of the elderly sector for their lifelong contributions to society and the development of communities across Iloilo.
“Through this program, the provincial government continues to honor senior citizens who serve as living inspirations in their families and communities through their resilience, strength, and lifelong contributions to society,” the PSWDO said.
The PSWDO added that the initiative goes beyond financial assistance and serves as a symbol of the province’s gratitude and respect for senior citizens who helped shape Iloilo’s communities through the years.
It added, more than a recognition program, this initiative symbolizes the province’s deep respect and gratitude for the generations who helped shape and strengthen the communities of Iloilo.
The program is anchored on the provincial government’s MoRProGRes Iloilo agenda, which promotes the welfare, dignity, protection, and well-being of senior citizens across the province./PN
