CATBALOGAN CITY — The local government of Sta. Margarita, Samar, distributed ₱4.56 million in social pensions to 1,519 senior citizens on October 24 and 25.
Each beneficiary received ₱3,000, providing much-needed relief to indigent seniors who rely on government support for daily and medical needs.
Flordelina R. Agrida, 69, of Sta. Margarita, said the assistance came just in time to help her buy medicine. “I am very grateful to the DSWD and to our mayor for the pension we received,” she said.
The payout is part of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC) program, which grants ₱1,000 per month to qualified elderly Filipinos aged 60 and above who have no pension from other government agencies.
On October 24, a total of 723 seniors received their pension, followed by another 796 beneficiaries the next day.
The activity was organized through the coordination of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) and the Municipal Treasurer’s Office (MTO) to ensure a smooth and orderly distribution.
Mayor Felix R. Panganoron said the local government remains committed to delivering prompt and compassionate service, especially to vulnerable sectors.
According to the MSWDO, the payout’s success reflected not only financial aid but also the town’s continuing effort to uphold the dignity and welfare of its elderly residents.
(Aaron C. Cotejar, PIA Samar)
