The city of Manila’s Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) has recently issued a warning to residents regarding the scanning, photocopying, or any form of unauthorized reproduction of senior citizen identification cards. This announcement was made by OSCA Director Elinor Jacinto during the Kalinga sa Maynila event.
Director Jacinto emphasized that the presentation of scanned or photocopied senior citizen IDs in establishments such as restaurants, drugstores, and groceries is strictly prohibited. The OSCA only recognizes original copies of these IDs and will confiscate any unauthorized reproductions. It is important to note that the OSCA does not issue scanned IDs, but only original ones.
Additionally, Director Jacinto highlighted that it is strictly prohibited for individuals to possess more than one senior citizen ID in the city of Manila. If a senior citizen possesses an ID issued from another city or municipality, it must be surrendered to the respective area of origin before applying for a new senior citizen ID from the city of Manila. To obtain the new ID, a certificate of cancellation must be presented to the OSCA.
In line with this, Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW) Director Re Fugoso emphasized that beneficiaries of financial cash assistance in the city are only eligible to claim aid from one program. Director Fugoso expressed concern about instances where beneficiaries of the persons with disabilities (PWDs) program were also claiming benefits from the solo parents aid and senior citizens allowance.
The city government of Manila has been providing a monthly allowance of P500 for senior citizens, PWDs, and solo parents. However, Director Fugoso clarified that the MDSW only issues PWD cards for individuals aged 59 years old and below. It is important for individuals who fall under any of these three categories to choose only one ID to hold.
The city of Manila has a significant number of beneficiaries, with approximately 17,000 solo parents, 33,000 PWDs, and over 180,000 senior citizens. The implementation of these regulations aims to ensure that the benefits and assistance provided by the city government are distributed fairly and efficiently.
It is crucial for residents of Manila to be aware of these regulations to avoid any potential violations. Unauthorized reproduction of senior citizen IDs not only undermines the integrity of the identification system but also hinders the proper distribution of benefits and assistance to those who truly need them.
By strictly enforcing the rule against possessing multiple senior citizen IDs and claiming benefits from multiple programs, the city government of Manila aims to streamline the process and ensure that the resources allocated for the welfare of senior citizens, PWDs, and solo parents are utilized effectively.
In conclusion, the OSCA’s warning against the unauthorized reproduction of senior citizen IDs serves as a reminder to residents of Manila to adhere to the regulations set in place. By following these guidelines, individuals can contribute to the efficient delivery of benefits and assistance, ultimately improving the overall welfare of the city’s senior citizens, PWDs, and solo parents.
Source: The Manila Times
