The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will release the social pension of indigent senior citizens every three months, instead of the current bi-annual schedule, starting next year.

This, following the adoption of Resolution No. 1047 of the House of Representatives’ Special Committee on Senior Citizens.

Starting 2022, beneficiaries of the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens will receive their PHP500-monthly stipend on a quarterly basis pursuant to DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 16.

The DSWD said on Tuesday the payout will be facilitated by Special Disbursing Officers in coordination with local government units (LGUs).

Social pension beneficiaries who are affected by the restrictions may send their authorized representatives to claim the stipend, the DSWD said in a statement.

To be presented are the original and photocopy of the representative’s valid identification (ID); pensioner’s valid ID; authorization letter, indicating the representative’s legal name; and certification from the village that it is on lockdown.

As of September, DSWD has released the pension to more than 3.07 million beneficiaries, or 80.19 percent of its total target for 2021.

The DSWD is also exploring other modes of delivery, such as cash cards, to fast-track the release of the social pension.

It is coordinating with the Land Bank of the Philippines regarding the application, production, and actual implementation of cash cards to make the release of the stipends more convenient.

Other service providers or payment facilities are also being considered.

Deputy Speaker Rufus Rodriguez, the author of the resolution, said the pandemic caused the displacement of workers, including senior citizens who are still productive members of society.

He said waiting every six months to receive assistance is too long for indigent senior citizens. (PNA)