ANTIPOLIO CITY — Behind the celebratory announcements of the National Commission on Senior Citizens (NCSC) lies a troubling reality: 1,700 elderly Filipinos—many in their 80s, 90s, and beyond—are still waiting to receive their rightful P10,000 grant under the Expanded Centenarian Act, while time, health, and hope steadily fade.
The NCSC recently reminded the public that applications for seniors celebrating milestone birthdays (80, 85, 90, 95, and 100 years old) between March 17, 2024, and December 31, 2025, will be accepted only until Friday, December 19, 2025. But what officials have not emphasized enough is this: even those who applied months ago remain in limbo, with their financial assistance still “pending processing.”
And for many of these seniors, “pending” could mean “never received.”
A Gift Meant for the Living—Not the Departed
The Expanded Centenarian Act was designed to honor and uplift the nation’s oldest citizens—to give them a small token of gratitude in their golden years. But when bureaucratic delays stretch for months, the law’s noble intent turns into cruel irony.
“These grants are not for the children or grandchildren. They are for the seniors themselves—to help with medicine, food, or even one last simple joy: a meal with family, a ride to church, or a new pair of slippers,” said a 78-year old daughter whose 92-year-old mother applied in April 2025 but has yet to receive the P10,000.
Medical experts and gerontologists warn: seniors in their 80s and 90s often have months, not years, especially those battling chronic illness, frailty, or isolation. Every day of delay is a day they may never get back.
“The government keeps saying, ‘Just wait.’ But you don’t wait when someone’s clock is already ticking,” said a geriatric physician in Rizal. “At 95, a three-month delay isn’t inconvenience—it’s potentially the difference between receiving that gift… or your family receiving it posthumously.”
Simple Process—But Why So Slow?
According to NCSC’s official post—shared by Andeng Ynares and local OSCA offices—the requirements for the grant are surprisingly minimal: a birth certificate, a National ID, a notarized form, and a photo holding a calendar. Families confirm: “Mukha lang madami, pero kaunti pala.”
Yet, 1,700 pending cases remain unresolved as the year closes. With only one working day left to submit new applications (December 19), families are rushing to comply—but many wonder: If it’s so simple, why are approvals taking so long?
Local OSCA offices, including the one in Antipolo (Ground Floor, GAD Building, beside Sumulong Park), say they are “doing their best.” But “best” may not be enough when lives are at stake.
A Moral Failure Disguised as Bureaucracy
This is not just about P10,000. It’s about dignity, urgency, and moral responsibility.
The law was passed for the living elder—not as a post-death consolation to heirs. And yet, the system treats these grants like routine paperwork, not final acts of national gratitude to those who built this country.
“Hindi tama na patayin na sila ng paghihintay,” said a Barangay Captain in Antipolo. “Ito hindi pabor—ito utang na loob ng gobyerno sa kanila.”
What Families Can Still Do (As Deadline Looms)
For those who haven’t applied yet:
- Ensure all documents are printed on A4 bond paper.
- Secure the NCSC Registration Reference Number via www.ncsc.gov.ph
- Submit requirements at the OSCA office before December 19.
- Relatives may submit on behalf of the senior, provided all forms are signed by the elder.
For those already in the 1,700 pending list:
- Call NCSC directly at (02) 8689-4565 to follow up.
- Demand transparency: When exactly will the release happen?
Balitang Huli’s Call to Action
To the NCSC and national leadership:
Fast-track these 1,700 releases—now.
Do not let another lolo or lola die wondering if their country remembered them.
Because justice delayed for the elderly is justice denied.
Balitang Huli: Nagsusulong ng katotohanan, lalo na kapag ang tinig ay mahina na.
#BalitangHuli #SeniorCitizensPH #ExpandedCentenarianAct #1700Waiting #HuwagPatayinSaPaghihintay #TayoNaAntipolo
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