Manila – Thousands of elderly Filipinos working abroad are poised to gain from a new law set to take full effect in 2025. The Expanded Centenarian Act, or Republic Act 11982, will provide them with much-needed support.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) says it’s ready to efficiently distribute the benefits through the Elder Living System – a program designed to address the needs of senior overseas workers and their families.
In a recent meeting, top DMW officials signed guidelines with other government agencies like the Department of Foreign Affairs and the National Commission of Senior Citizens. The goal is to ensure all eligible Filipino elders, both at home and abroad, can access the law’s provisions.
“Senior overseas workers have made huge sacrifices and achieved so much. They inspire the next generation,” said DMW Asst. Secretary Venecio Legaspi.
The key perks under the law include:
PHP 10,000 cash gift for 80th, 85th, 90th and 95th birthdays
PHP 100,000 cash gift for centenarians (100 years old)A digital tool called the Elderly Data Management System will help smoothen the benefit disbursement process, especially for those living overseas.
The DMW has prioritized senior migrant workers in its agenda, vowing to create tailored programs to tackle their unique challenges. Together with other agencies, the department aims to successfully roll out the Expanded Centenarians Act worldwide.
