Pateros Celebrates 75 Senior Milestone Beneficiaries with ₱10,000 Cash Gifts through the Expanded Centenarian Act

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) led the distribution of cash gifts to 75 senior milestone beneficiaries in Pateros as part of its continued implementation of the Expanded Centenarian Act (ECA). Seniors aged 80, 85, 90, and 95 received ₱10,000 each from the NCSC, along with an additional ₱5,000 from the Local Government of Pateros, in accordance with Municipal Ordinance 2024-30. Flower bouquets were also given to the recipients in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the community.

The ceremony was conducted in partnership with the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) and the Municipality of Pateros, and was attended by NCSC Chairperson and CEO Dr. Mary Jean P. Loreche, Commissioner General Rainier Cruz III, and NCSC-NCR officials.

Prior to the distribution, the NCSC joined municipal officials in a flag-raising ceremony marking the beginning of the 51st Nutrition Month celebration. Dr. Loreche highlighted the significance of proper nutrition and health programs, particularly for senior citizens, as part of building a healthier, more inclusive community.

The NCSC officials also held a courtesy meeting with Mayor Gerald German and his team to discuss ongoing and future plans for senior citizen welfare in the municipality. Mayor German reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining and enhancing key initiatives of the municipality such as livelihood programs, weekly diabetes check-up, morning Tai Chi and Zumba wellness sessions, and the “Dalaw sa may Sakit” door-to-door program, which provides special care and grocery support to bedridden senior citizens.

The NCSC also led an inspection of the OSCA Building in Barangay Sta. Ana, which will be developed into a Senior Citizen Community Care Center (SC3C). Once completed, the facility will serve over 10,000 seniors in Pateros and become the 12th SC3C in the country. Mayor German pledged to ensure that the facility meets national standards for accessibility, safety, and comfort. ■