DSWD 11 expedites release of centenarian incentive

THE regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD 11) is working to expedite the release of monetary incentive worth P100,000 each for centenarians within this month.

DSWD 11 information office Angel Paña told Sun.Star Davao yesterday that initially, they plan to award the centenarian incentives during the celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week last October 1-7, however, the proposal is still pending at the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for budget allocation.

"But we will work hard to ensure the release before the end of October," she added.

Apart from the cash incentives to be given by DSWD, respective cities and municipalities of the claimants will also award a plaque of recognition and additional incentives.

The centenarian will receive a letter of felicitation from the president as well.

According to her, as of Sept. 2016, there were 81 centenarians who submitted complete requirements to support their claims at their office.

Based on the records

of the Department of Local Government Unit (DILG) as of the first semester this year, there are 230,734 senior citizens in the region.

"The objective of this is to give a reward to the centenarians and at the same time help senior citizens in their medication," Paña said.

She added that even those who died and reached 100 years old will also be recognized but there will no longer be cash incentives.

"Yung mga namatay na umabot ng 100 years old above will be awarded a plaque of recognition to be given to their relatives," Pa¤a said.

Meanwhile, DSWD 11 feted its employees who have become senior citizens. JCR