ncsc philippines national commission of senior citizens

National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC)

NCSC Philippines, or the National Commission on Senior Citizens, is a government agency that provides assistance and services for Filipino senior citizens. This agency seeks to promote the legal rights of seniors, as well as enhance their social standing and access to opportunities in society.

Also Read: NCSC Online Registration Guide for Senior Citizens Philippines

Through its programs, NCSC Philippines aims to improve the quality of life of Filipino seniors by providing them with access to social protection, health care services, financial assistance, training and employment opportunities. The commission works with other government agencies and civil society organizations to ensure that the rights and welfare of the elderly are protected at all.

In accordance with Section 2 of Republic Act (RA) No. 11350, the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) will promote advocacy on behalf of and cooperation among different stakeholders and senior citizens (SCs) to ensure the successful implementation of various programs and services, especially concerning the development of SC’s and advancing their health and well-being, as well as ensuring a supportive and enabling environment for senior citizens.

Vision

The NCSC vision follows:

“National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) envisions a society that respects and promotes the dignity, security, wellness, and well-being of older persons, and recognizes their contribution to nation-building through lifelong learning, empowerment, and development in making them truly active citizens.”

Mission

The NCSC mission follows:

“The NCSC, as a single cohesive agency, promotes the rights, welfare, and benefits of Filipino senior citizens and advocates collaboration among and between different stakeholders by formulating, implementing, and monitoring policies, plans, and programs and ensuring their effective implementation for the advancement of active, productive, and healthy aging and providing an enabling environment for older persons.”

Goal

The NCSC goal follows:

“Create a physically, psychologically, and emotionally healthy community of older persons who truly belong to a humane society where the well-being, independence, self-reliance, and high quality of life of older persons are advocated.”

Functions

The following are the list of functions of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC):

  •   Adopting policies to support and value the elderly throughout the community.
  • Develop communities and support older people’s and their families’ socio-economic development in terms of the growth of human capital and socioeconomic resilience.
  • Encouraging and motivating elders to participate in national development.
  • Encouraging elderly people to participate in the growth of social and economic enterprises in both public and private sectors.
  • Establishing initiatives that benefit the elderly, their families, and the wider community in which they operate.
  • Improve and promote the elderly’s health and well-being.
  • Increasing the value of the elderly’ contributions through established methods.
  • Protect and promote the implementation of governmental regulations, directives, plans, initiatives, and services aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of Senior citizens should be empowered and given the necessary training to enhance their ability to contribute to the growth of the nation. This calls for an effective communication campaign.
ncsc logo
NCSC logo

Programs and Services

In accordance with this policy, the State will support advocacy on behalf of senior citizens and collaboration between various stakeholders and senior citizens to ensure the successful implementation of various programs and services, particularly on the development of senior citizens and advancing their health and well-being, and ensuring a supportive and enabling environment for the elderly.  The following is the list of NCSC’s programs and services:

Information Management and Information Communications Technology (IMICT)

In collaboration with the other NCSC departments and offices, IMICT develops, updates, maintains, and deploys trusted NCSC information systems. Together with the banking system that NCSC will use for an HRIS, this will create an information database of all senior citizens in the country. Additionally, this keeps e-services (software and hardware) highly available and secure to encourage effective client interactions.

Inter-Agency Coordination (INACCORD)

To assist in carrying out the NCSC mandate, INACCORD coordinates, collaborates, and cooperates with several government offices and agencies at all levels of government, from the national to the local.  On all issues relating to the general welfare of elderly persons, they establish and maintain cooperation and consultations with local government units and national government agencies.

Participation, Communication, and Education (PACE)

This is one of the many laws, projects, and initiatives of NCSC. PACE informs senior citizens of their benefits and rights. Senior citizen advantages and privileges laws have been written and put into effect for a long time, but many seniors are still unaware of them. The purpose of this office is to spread awareness of many of these laws, programs, and NCSC efforts. In line with the NCSC’s development mandate, PACE will represent senior citizens’ perspectives on numerous policy projects.

Programs, Plans, and Legislative Liaison (PROPALL)

PROPALL carries out research, develops plans, and makes adjustments to carry out the Commission’s mandate while taking into account all relevant concerns, laws, and advocates.

Risk Assessment and Security Management Unit (RASMU)

RASMU provides and maintains a secure environment for workers and senior citizens by keeping an eye on the area and its residents. By disclosing irregularities, alerting those who violate policies and procedures, stopping trespassers, and reporting violations, they prevent losses and damage. By abiding by the law, they also maintain stability and reputation.

Senior Citizens’ Action for Development & Nation-building (SECADNA)

As required by the constitution and senior citizen regulations, SECADNA operationalizes the role of senior citizens in development and nation-building.  To involve senior citizens and utilize their skills in various development projects across the nation, particularly in rural areas, the office will create and manage a list of retired experts.  The office will also collaborate with other domestic and international development groups to plan and carry out programs that elderly people can take part in.

Senior Citizens’ Unit for Rights Enforcement (SECURE)

SECURE determines whether complaints made by or involving senior persons and Senior persons’ Associations have validity and makes sure the appropriate measures are taken. They support senior citizens and senior citizens’ associations in their various legal actions to pursue their legitimate claims, recognition, and/or action from people, agencies, and institutions, whether private or public; they ensure the full implementation of laws, policies, and programs of the government about senior citizens and evaluate their effectiveness through review and investigation.

The office aids in the enforcement of compliance orders that may be issued by the Commission to give effect to laws, policies, rules, and regulations and, as a result, assists in the exercise of the Commission’s visitorial powers over establishments or offices to ensure compliance, observance, or actual implementation. The government’s current laws, policies, and programs about senior citizens may need to be revised or amended to keep up with technological advancements and societal changes while ensuring greater effectiveness and responsiveness. They also develop policies, programs, and projects with these goals in mind.

Social Pension, Centenarian Benefits, Support to Disabled (SOCPEN)

The SOCPEN is responsible for carrying out the numerous senior citizen benefits and rights, including but not limited to: Social Pension (RA 9994), Centenarian Act (RA 10868 of 2016), Assistance to Senior Citizens Who Are PWDs, Emergency Needs of SC, and other Special Projects. To ensure that the aforementioned benefits and entitlements are enjoyed as well as to meet the emergency needs of elderly persons nationwide, an efficient administrative system must be built.

Partner Agencies

The following is the list of partner agencies of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC):

Related: Verify your NCSC registration status here.

Video: Proposed National Commission on Senior Citizens Budget

One of the newest Philippine organizations is the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC). For information on the most recent Philippine organization that supports senior citizens, watch the video below.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any further questions regarding the “National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC)” see the list of frequently asked questions and answers below.

1. What is the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC)?

The NCSC is a government organization that reports to the President’s Office and has a commitment to promoting and defending the rights of senior citizens in the Philippines.

2. What is the purpose of NCSC?

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) was established with the purpose of ensuring the complete implementation of government laws, policies, and programs pertaining to senior citizens. It also reviews and conducts studies in this area and makes policy recommendations to Congress and the President.

3. Who is eligible for NCSC programs and services?

Every senior citizen registered in the Philippines is eligible for NCSC programs and services.

4. What is the NCSC’s hotline number?

You can reach NCSC main office at (063)(02) 82498310, local 8482.

5. What is NCSC’s main office address?

NCSC’s address is GD-106 Mabini Hall, Malacañang Palace Grounds San Rafael St., San Miguel, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila.

6. What is NCSC’s email address?

NCSC’s email address are ph.ncsc@gmail.com (for general concern) and scdf.ncsc@gmail.com (for NCSC Data Form concern).

Summary

The Philippine government established the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) to offer better and more simplified services to seniors, who are one of the most underserved and underappreciated groups in society. Senior citizenscan now live their golden years in comfort and dignity thanks to the NCSC’s numerous programs and services that have given them more influence.

dswd senior citizen assistance cash aid application

How to Apply DSWD Senior Citizen Assistance Cash Aid

Are you a senior citizen in the Philippines? If you are, then you may be wondering how you can apply for the DSWD Senior citizen cash assistance. This is a social pension program wherein qualified Filipino senior citizens (over the age of 60) may be eligible to get a monthly allowance of PHP 500.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is responsible for protecting and promoting the social welfare and development of all people, especially the most vulnerable members of society. One of the department’s programs is the Social Pension Program which is a financial aid to senior citizens who are indigent, needy, and poor. 

Please be guided on the steps to get senior citizen benefits and financial assistance from DSWD. So if you’re a senior citizen needing some form of assistance from the government, please check out the detials below.

dswd senior citizen assistance cash aid application

What is DSWD Social Pension Program (Senior Citizen Cash Assistance)

Social Pension Program is a needs-based program that provides a monthly stipend of PHP 500 to indigent senior citizens who are 60 years old and above. To be eligible for the program, senior citizens must not be receiving any form of pension from the government, must not be employed, and must not have any source of regular income. 

Recipients must also be residents of the Philippines. The money can be used for any purpose, such as buying food, medicines, or other necessities. 

The Social Pension Program was created under Republic Act No. 9994, or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010. The program is being implemented in all regions across the country. 

Also Read: What is DSWD AICS Program – Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations

What are the Benefits of DSWD Senior Citizen Cash Assistance

  • One of the benefits senior citizens can receive under the DSWD Senior Citizen Cash Assistance is utility discounts. According to Republic Act 9994, or The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, qualified senior citizens are entitled to a 5% discount on their electric and water consumption. They are also entitled to a 50% discount on electric, water, and telephone consumption at senior citizen centers and residential or group homes. These discounts can go a long way in easing the financial burden that often comes with old age. 
  • In the Philippines, businesses are mandated by law to give at least a 20% discount to senior citizens on all purchases. This applies to both essential and non-essential goods. Furthermore, movie tickets, public transportation fares, and entrance fees to museums and parks are also discounted for senior citizens.
  • Another privilege given to them is the priority lane. This allows them to transact faster in banks, government offices, and even supermarkets.
  • Senior Citizens may also avail of free medical and dental services in any government hospital. They are also given importance in terms of disaster response procedures. They can join activities organized by the barangay or city they live in, such as sports tournaments and cultural shows. 
  • Aside from the monthly cash assistance from DSWD, other government agencies give additional financial aid to help ease the burden of living costs for senior citizens. One example is the 4Ps Program or Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Under this program, eligible indigent households will receive a conditional cash transfer of up to P1,400 per month, which can be used for health and education expenses
  • Following Republic Act 9994, eligible elderly persons have the right to the actual fare for land transportation in taxis, Asian utility vehicles (AUVs), and shuttle services, public trains, such as the Light Rail Transit (LRT), Mass Rail Transit, and Philippine National Railways. This benefit can help seniors maintain their independence and mobility even on a low budget.
  • The program also covers funeral and burial services in case a registered senior citizen dies under this program. 

Also Read: National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC)

Who are Eligible to Get DSWD Senior Citizen Cash Assistance

  • To be eligible for the benefits and privileges of RA 9994, Filipino citizens must be at least 60 years old. 
  • Elderly “dual citizens” must be able to prove Filipino citizenship and residency in the Philippines for at least six months. 
  • Additionally, beneficiaries must not have been convicted of any moral turpitude crime. 
  • fragile, ill, or handicapped
  • without a pension from the social security system SSS, the government insurance system GSIS, or any private entities
  • lacking a stable source of income
  • lacking consistent assistance from family or friends to meet their basic necessities
  • Finally, they must present a valid ID card issued by the Philippine government upon availing of the benefits and privileges. 

dswd social pension for senior citizens assistance

Requirements for Senior Citizen Cash Assistance

  • He/she must be a Senior Citizen of age 60 and above.
  • Proof of residency (i.e., Barangay Certificate) 
  • To avail of the senior citizen cash assistance, certification and authorization from the Office for Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) are required. The OSCA ID must be presented to the nearest Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) field office. If the senior citizen does not have an OSCA ID, he/she may apply for one at the nearest OSCA office. 
  • Fill out an application and provide documentation such as proof of citizenship or residency, proof of age, and proof of income. 

How to Get Social Pension from DSWD for Senior Citizens

Please check out the details on how get the social pension program below:

  1. To apply, seniors must first collect the required documents. Seniors can then submit their applications to the nearest DSWD office. 
  2. The application form can be downloaded from the DSWD website or obtained from your local DSWD office.
  3. Once the application has been received, a caseworker will review the information and determine whether the senior is eligible for assistance. 
  4. If approved, the senior will receive a monthly stipend that can be used to cover essential expenses. 

Applying for DSWD senior citizen cash assistance is a simple process that can help seniors stay healthy and active in their community.

Video: DSWD Senior Citizen Cash Assistance

In this video, you will learn all about the program, who is eligible for it, and how to apply. Senior citizen cash assistance is a government program that provides financial assistance to senior citizens in need. The program provides a monthly cash grant to qualified seniors to help them meet their basic needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Please check out these FAQs about the social pension program:

1. What is the social pension program?

The social pension program is a government initiative that provides financial assistance to senior citizens in need. The program provides a monthly cash grant to qualified seniors to help them meet their basic needs.

2. Who is eligible for the social pension program?

To be eligible for the social pension program, seniors must be at least 60 years old and must not have a regular source of income. Additionally, beneficiaries must not have been convicted of any moral turpitude crime.

3. What are the requirements for the social pension program?

To apply for the social pension program, seniors must first collect the required documents. Seniors can then submit their applications to the nearest Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) office. The application form can be downloaded from the DSWD website or obtained from your local DSWD office.

4. How much is the social pension program?

The social pension program provides a monthly stipend of P500 to qualified seniors.

5. What Are The Benefits And Or Privileges Of Senior Citizens Under Republic Act No 9994?

Two (2) new measures under RA 9994 will specifically assist senior citizens: Seniors who are in need of assistance will receive: 

  • A monthly social pension of PHP 500; 
  • A PHP 2,000 death benefit assistance payment to the closest surviving family who provided care for the senior until their death.

6. What Funeral And Burial Services Are Entitled To The 20% Discount?

According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the funeral and burial services entitled to the 20 percent discount are as follows: 

1) Transfer of remains

2) Embalming

3) Wake services

4) Funeral parlor use

5) Funeral car use

6) Hearse use

7) Coffin or casket purchase

8) Cemetery lot or niche purchase

9) Interment or cremation fees. 

The said discount shall be availed of by indigent senior citizens, as certified by the barangay official, city/municipality social welfare officer, or city/municipality mayor.

7. Who Are Entitled To The Benefits And Privileges Granted Under Ra 9994? 

Republic Act No. 9994, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, is a law that provides benefits and privileges to senior citizens in the Philippines. To be eligible for these benefits, indigent senior citizens refer to any elderly who is:

  • Frail, sickly or with disability
  • Without pension
  • No permanent source of income, compensation or financial assistance from relatives to support his/her basic needs.

8. How Much Is The Monthly Allowance Of Senior Citizen In The Philippines?

The monthly allowance for senior citizens in the Philippines is PHP 500 per month. This allowance is given to all senior citizens who are at least 60 years old and are living in the Philippines. The allowance can be used for their daily needs, such as food, transportation, and medicine. The allowance is also non-taxable. Senior citizens can also avail of discounts on certain goods and services.

9. Can A Senior Citizen Be A Dependent in Philhealth?

In the Philippines, PhilHealth is a health insurance program that provides financial assistance to Filipinos in need. One of the requirements for eligibility is that the applicant must be a dependent of another individual. This typically means that the applicant must be a child, spouse, or parent of the primary insured person. 

However, seniors may also be eligible to enroll as dependents in certain circumstances. For example, if a senior citizen is living with and being supported by another individual, they may be able to enroll as a dependent. Seniors enrolled as dependents in PhilHealth are entitled to the same benefits as other members, including coverage for outpatient care, hospitalization, and maternity care.

Summary

 If you are a senior citizen who is living below the poverty line, you may be eligible for financial assistance through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Senior Citizen Cash Assistance program. Through this program, eligible applicants will receive a monthly cash grant of PHP 500, which can be used to help cover their basic needs, such as food and utility expenses. 

Applying for DSWD Senior Citizen Cash Assistance is simple as long as you have all the required documents ready beforehand. Just remember these few key steps: 

1) Go to your nearest DSWD office and inquire about the program 
2) Fill out the completely and legibly Application Form 
3) Submit the required documentary requirements  
4) Wait for the assessment of your application 
5) If approved, you will receive the cash grant through bank deposit or check disbursement.

As always, if you have any questions or need assistance, it is best to contact the nearest DSWD office near your residence.