Sanggunian Expands One-Time Cash Gift Coverage for Senior Citizens
In a significant move to enhance the welfare of the city’s elderly population, the Sangguniang Panlungsod has officially expanded the coverage of the city's one-time cash gift program. During its 14th Regular Session on April 6, 2026, the Council approved Ordinance No. 11, Series of 2026, which lowers the eligibility age for the grant to include more senior citizens.
The new legislation amends Section 4 of City Ordinance No. 3, Series of 2024. Previously, the benefit was limited to seniors aged 85 to 89. With the passage of this amendatory ordinance, the coverage now extends to all senior citizens aged 80 to 89 years old.
The expansion aims to address the rising medical and nutritional needs of the city's "younger" octogenarians. Under the new guidelines, qualified bona fide residents of Olongapo City within the 80-89 age bracket are entitled to a one-time cash gift of Five Thousand Pesos (PhP 5,000.00).
The ordinance clarifies that this is a one-time benefit; therefore, those who have already received their cash gift under the previous 85-89 bracket are no longer eligible for a second grant.
The measure was authored and sponsored by City Councilor Cristabelle Marie C. Paulino, Chairperson of the Committee on Finance and Appropriations. During the floor deliberations, Councilor Paulino emphasized that the approval of the ordinance is an initial step towards the realization of the ultimate goal of providing a cash gift to all senior citizens in the city. By broadening the scope of this program, the City Government reaffirms its dedication to the "total well-being" of its senior community.
