Free Burial Services for Indigent Families Approved by Senate
The Senate has officially approved a new measure that offers free burial services to extremely poor families across the Philippines.
Known as Senate Bill No. 2965 or the “Free Funeral Services Act,” this law aims to ease the burden on families who cannot afford the high costs of laying a loved one to rest.
Under this program, indigent families identified by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) can receive a complete funeral package at no cost. This includes those affected by natural disasters and other emergencies who are unable to handle funeral expenses on their own.
“Free funeral services shall be provided to families who are in crisis situations, as determined by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), including but not limited to indigent families, or those affected by calamities, disasters, or other emergency circumstances that prevent them from affording dignified funeral services,” Public Relations and Information Bureau said.
The assistance covers several essential services. Families will not have to pay for the preparation of burial documents, embalming, cremation (if chosen), or the funeral setup. A coffin or urn will also be provided, along with a place for viewing, based on the family’s preferences.
To access the funeral package, the family must present a valid ID, the death certificate of the deceased, a funeral contract signed by a family member, the funeral service provider, a DSWD representative, and a social case study prepared by a licensed social worker.
This initiative is a step toward helping vulnerable communities during one of the most difficult times in life losing a loved one. By removing the financial pressure of funeral costs, the law gives families the chance to focus on grieving and healing without the added stress of expenses.
The Free Funeral Services Act is expected to benefit many Filipinos and bring a sense of relief to those who need it most, ensuring that every person is treated with dignity, even in death.
In another report, a woman marries late fiancé in heartfelt ceremony before his burial
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