Lamitan city: The Ministry of Social Welfare and Development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD-BARMM) released PHP42 million in social pension to 7,000 senior citizens in Lamitan City, Basilan. The distribution, conducted on Friday, is part of a broader initiative to support the elderly population in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the social pension payout was made possible in collaboration with the Basilan Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and the Lamitan City Social Welfare and Development Office. PSWDO chief Anwary Akalun confirmed that each beneficiary received PHP6,000, covering the pension for the third and fourth quarters. The social pension serves as a government-provided stipend designed to assist senior citizens with their daily living and medical expenses.

Councilor Kennybel Planta-Flores, chairperson of Lamitan City Council's Committee on Social Services, expressed her gratitude to MSSD-BARMM for their dedication to supporting the elderly community. She emphasized that the social pension program represents more than financial aid; it symbolizes appreciation and respect for senior citizens who have played vital roles in their communities. Furthermore, Flores assured that the Lamitan City Council remains committed to continuing policies and programs that uphold the welfare and dignity of senior citizens.

The payout is part of an ongoing effort to support a total of 17,100 senior citizens across Basilan, with distributions set to continue until December 18.