Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has pledged to enhance the provision of programs and services for senior citizens after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. transferred the supervision of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) to the DSWD. The department aims to ensure a more coordinated and robust approach to addressing the needs of older adults.
According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao expressed the DSWD’s commitment to supporting the NCSC’s ongoing initiatives and integrating the senior citizens’ database with relevant programs and services. This follows the directive outlined in Executive Order (EO) 96, signed by President Marcos on September 18, which shifts the NCSC’s oversight from the Office of the President to the DSWD.
EO 96 emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong organizational link between the NCSC and the DSWD to enhance policies and programs for senior citizens. This move aligns with the administration’s socioeconomic agenda, focusing on improving bureaucratic efficiency and strengthening social services delivery for the elderly.
The DSWD will maintain its role in leading the implementation, distribution, and management of the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC) program, in coordination with the NCSC. This program supports Filipinos aged 60 and above who are frail, ill, or living with disabilities and lack regular income, pension, or family support.
Under Republic Act 11916, the monthly pension for these seniors was increased from PHP500 to PHP1,000 starting January 2024, demonstrating the government’s dedication to assisting seniors in coping with rising costs of medicine and food.
In addition to the SPISC, the DSWD oversees the Centenarian Program, which acknowledges the contributions of Filipinos who have reached 100 years old. Centenarians, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad, receive PHP 100,000 cash incentives and a letter of felicitation from the President, honoring their longevity.
