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Cash gifts for Filipino seniors abroad

Expanded Centenarians Act copyLolos and Lolas, may pa-cash sa Pinas!

Spread the word — if you know a lola or lolo in Manitoba or anywhere in Canada who may qualify, encourage them to apply and receive the recognition they so deserve.

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) is calling on elderly Filipino-Canadians and their families to take advantage of the newly expanded cash incentive program under the Expanded Centenarians Act (Republic Act No. 11982). This new law amends the original Centenarians Act of 2016 by extending benefits to Filipinos not only at age 100, but also at 80, 85, 90, and 95.

What’s new in the law?

Previously, only Filipinos who reached 100 years old were entitled to the cash gift of ₱100,000 and a congratulatory letter from the President of the Philippines. Under the new law:

Filipinos aged 80, 85, 90, and 95 are now entitled to a ₱10,000 cash gift each.

The ₱100,000 cash gift for centenarians remains, along with the Letter of Felicitation from the President.

The CFO, which operates under the Office of the President, is one of the lead agencies implementing this program. It serves overseas Filipinos, including permanent migrants, dual citizens, spouses and partners of foreign nationals, Exchange Visitor Program participants, and Au Pair participants.

How to apply

Qualified Filipino seniors abroad – or their families – are advised to coordinate with the CFO or the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. Applicants should prepare the following documents:

  • Completed application form with a 2x2 photo
  • Valid Philippine passport or proof of dual citizenship
  • Details of a Philippine peso-denominated bank account
  • A recent full-body photo of the applicant

CFO Chairperson Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II highlighted the significance of this initiative, noting that the program reflects the government’s deep appreciation for Filipino seniors living abroad.

“Even from afar, our elderly kababayans continue to contribute meaningfully – economically, culturally, and socially – to both their host countries and the Philippines. This is one way we let them know they are not forgotten,” said Sec. Ang.

He also emphasized that many Filipino seniors actively support cultural preservation, serve as mentors in their communities, and promote policies that benefit both migrants and the elderly.

Filipino seniors overseas making their mark

Since 2019, the CFO has endorsed the ₱100,000 centenarian gift to 69 elderly Filipinos living abroad, 71% of whom are women – a trend that reflects the continuing feminization of migration. Most recipients came from countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Many originated from the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog, Bicol, and the National Capital Region.

Contact information

For more information or assistance, contact the CFO at:
(+632) 8552-4724 (loc. 734 or 735)
info@cfo.gov.ph | pmd@cfo.gov.ph
21st Floor, The Upper Class Tower, Quezon Ave. cor. Scout Reyes St.,
Brgy. Paligsahan, Quezon City 1103, Philippines