BY NAPOLEON OLASO | UM Intern
THE NATIONAL Commission on Senior Citizens XI urged the elderly to register and validate their age to receive benefits under the Expanded Centenarian Act.
NCSC XI OIC Filbert Bryan Sollesta and project development officer Samantha Nicole Dizon emphasized that under the law, seniors aged 80, 85, 90, and 95 are entitled to ₱10,000 each, while those who reach 100 years old will get ₱100,000. They clarified that earlier payouts will not be deducted from the full centenarian benefit.
Sollesta explained that valid documents such as birth certificates, OSCA IDs, or affidavits are needed for verification. Seniors without records may apply for late registration at the Local Civil Registry.
He also acknowledged the challenges faced by seniors in remote areas and said NCSC is coordinating with barangays and LGUs to assist in reaching and verifying eligible individuals.
Most beneficiaries use the cash for medical needs, Sollesta added, and there have been minimal issues with family disputes over the funds.
