Lacking in papers, town centenarian can’t get cash aid

CEBU, Philippines - While Balamban town already has an ordinance that mandated the giving of cash incentives to individuals 100 years or older, documentary requirements prevented beneficiaries to avail of the cash incentives.

Municipal Secretary Rufo Hayag said a qualified centenarian was not able to show birth certificate or any proof of birth.

“May usa unta nga qualified pero di man siya maka-produce og proof sa iyang edad,” Hayag said.

Mayor Ace Stefan Binghay approved on March 12, 2013 the municipal ordinance that grants financial incentives of P10,000 to centenarians.

A beneficiary must be a resident of Balamban for at least three years prior to reaching 100 years old.

Documentary requirements include a letter of application addressed to the Centenary Committee headed by the mayor, birth certificate issued by the National Statistics Office, baptismal certificate accompanied by Local Civil Registrar and NSO certifications of negative record, and any legal document that can prove the age such as voter’s identification card or a driver’s license.

According to the measure, the financial incentive shall be given to the beneficiary not later than 30 days after the submission and validation of the documentary requirements.

The municipal government has allocated P100,000 for the cash incentives. (FREEMAN)