Mandaue City has approved on first reading an ordinance seeking to raise the annual financial assistance for senior citizens, with increases scheduled in phases over the next two years.
Under the proposal, qualified beneficiaries will receive P11,000 in 2026 and P12,000 beginning in 2027, up from the current P10,000 annual aid.
The measure, passed by the 17th Sangguniang Panlungsod on June 1, 2026, amends City Ordinance No. 16-2024-1867, which set the existing cash assistance for registered senior citizens.
Councilor Carlo Fortuna, author of the ordinance, said the adjustment reflects the city’s continued effort to support its elderly population amid rising living costs.
“Good news. Gipa approve nato on first reading ang atong ordinansa nga nag increase sa financial assistance sa senior citizens sa Dakbayan sa Mandaue,” Fortuna said.
He said beneficiaries will receive P11,000 in 2026, released in two tranches, with P6,000 given in the first half and the remaining P5,000 in December.
“Karong tuiga, P11 thousand ang madawat… karong December payout, P6,000 ang madawat sa senior citizens for the second tranche,” he added.
Starting in 2027, the annual assistance will increase to P12,000, also distributed in two equal releases.
“Next year, 12 thousand na ang madawat sa atong senior citizens,” Fortuna said.
The ordinance noted that Mandaue City currently has around 30,000 registered senior citizens and anchored the proposal on constitutional provisions and national laws, including the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.
It also cited Sections 16 and 17 of the Local Government Code, which mandate local governments to deliver social welfare programs and basic services.
The proposal stemmed from a letter endorsed by Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano, who earlier pushed for increased support for senior citizens as part of his administration’s social welfare agenda.
Fortuna said the phased rollout is intended to balance expanded assistance with the city’s fiscal capacity while ensuring sustained support for elderly residents.
Once approved on final reading and signed by the mayor, the ordinance will take effect immediately.
Fortuna also said the city council is studying a possible increase in financial aid for persons with disabilities (PWDs), although no formal proposal has been filed yet.
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