The national commission of senior citizens (ncsc) is transitioning to digital fund transfers for government cash gifts to elderly filipinos:overnance initiative.

According to Philippines News Agency, the digital payout system covers the benefits provided under Republic Act No. 11982 or the Expanded Centenarians Act, which grants PHP10,000 cash gifts to the elderly aged 80, 85, 90 and 95. Centenarians continue to receive PHP100,000 from the government. Gutierrez said the shift is expected to make fund releases more efficient, accessible, and secure from fraud and misuse.

Gutierrez explained that the new system includes built-in mechanisms for identity verification, data validation, and auditing. To help elderly Filipinos adapt to the new system, the NCSC's 16 regional offices are conducting digital literacy training and coordinating with the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs nationwide.

Land Bank of the Philippines has also established senior citizen assistance counters to guide elderly clients in opening accounts and accessing digital services. Under the program, beneficiaries may designate authorized relatives to assist them with applications and account-related requirements.

Applicants must submit proof of age through a Philippine Statistics Authority-issued birth certificate and indicate their preferred mode of payment in their application forms. Once requirements are verified, the NCSC said cash gifts can be transferred directly to beneficiaries through their chosen digital platform, reducing processing time and minimizing the need for physical payouts.