Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD): has officially refuted claims that have been making rounds on the internet regarding an increase in the monthly pension for indigent senior citizens to PHP1,500 starting this July, labeling such reports as 'fake news.'

According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao stated that the monthly social pension for indigent senior citizens is still set at PHP1,000 per beneficiary, as stipulated by Republic Act No. 11916, also known as "An Act Increasing the Social Pension of Senior Citizens." Dumlao clarified that any change to the pension amount would necessitate new legislation. She emphasized that, should there be any changes, announcements will be made through DSWD's official communication channels.

The Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC) is a DSWD-implemented program offering monthly financial aid to qualifying indigent seniors aged 60 and above who are frail, sickly, or disabled, and lack a regular income, pension, or family support. The PHP1,000 monthly aid is designed to help the elderly cover their daily subsistence and medical needs, particularly for food and medicine, and is distributed on a monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly basis.

"We continue to focus on the welfare of our elderly. That's why we are urging the public not to just believe unofficial pronouncements. Ensure that the information comes from the DSWD, its field offices, or from official government agencies," Dumlao urged. For reliable and updated information, the public is encouraged to consult the official DSWD website and verified social media pages.