GLAN, Sarangani (PIA) — The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) emphasizes the significance of recognizing senior citizens while they are still with us, active and in good health.
On Feb. 26, NCSC Cluster 7 (Regions 10 and 12) celebrated the first anniversary of the Expanded Centenarians Act (RA 11982) in Glan, Sarangani, marking its nationwide launch and regional cash incentive distribution for the elderly.
Allen Sam V. Estabillo, NCSC Cluster 7 officer-in-charge, underscored that the initiative is not just about financial assistance but a tribute to senior citizens’ lifelong contributions to their families and communities.
“Daghan ang nagsulong nga hatagan og bili ang senior citizens sayo pa lang aron mapahimud-an sila ug insentibo habang kusog pa ang ilang mga lawas,” he noted.
(Many have pushed for recognizing our senior citizens earlier so they can enjoy incentives while they are still strong and healthy.)
“Kini usa ka pasidungog, usa ka pagpasalamat sa inyong kinabuhi na puno sa sakripisyo ug serbisyo,” he stated.
(This is an honor, a way of giving thanks for a life full of sacrifice and service.)
Estabillo also emphasized that the program goes beyond monetary assistance.
“Kini dili lang bahin sa kwarta. Kini usa ka pagpasidungog sa inyong dugayng paningkamot ug pagpakabana sa pamilya ug komunidad. Kamo ang buhi nga pamatuod sa lig-on nga panimalay, tradisyon, ug respeto sa mga Pilipino,” he added.
(The award is not just about money. It is a tribute to your hard work and dedication to your family and community. You are living proof of strong families, traditions, and the deep respect Filipinos have for their elders.)
At 100 years old, Vivencio Alcover Castañares Sr. of Glan, Sarangani, received P100,000 in recognition of his milestone age.
“Ang kasing-kasing nga adunay kalinaw uban sa Diyos ug sa tawo, hinungdanon sa dakong kalipay. Dako kaayong salamat, dako akong kalipay tungod sa inyong gugma ug kaluoy,” he expressed in his local language.
(The heart that has peace with God and fellow men is the key to immense joy. Thank you very much; I am deeply grateful for your love and kindness.)
Castañares also shared advice with the younger generation, encouraging them to live healthily and avoid harmful vices.
“Hinaot nga molikay gyud mo sa kadautan, maglikay mo anang mga bisyo nga makadaot, para hatagan kamo ug taas nga kinabuhi nga pareho sa ako,” he said.
(May you stay away from harm and avoid vices that destroy health so you can live a long life like me.)
The expanded law also extended a cash incentive of P10,000 to Filipino senior citizens ages 80, 85, 90, and 95 to ensure they receive recognition and support earlier in life.
The program’s first batch of distributions in the Soccsksargen region covered 124 senior citizens who are celebrating birthdays between Jan. 1 and Feb. 15, 2025.
Following the distribution in Glan, the NCSC continued its payout in Polomolok and Banga in South Cotabato on Feb. 27 and in General Santos City on Feb. 28, ensuring a wider coverage across Region 12.
The NCSC targets 1,200 elderly Filipinos nationwide to benefit from this initiative as pillars of family and tradition.
Glan’s payout is the first in Region 12, making it part of a historic, simultaneous national distribution. (HJPF, PIA SarGen)
