GSIS Hikes Funeral Benefit to P50,000 for Gov't Workers, Pensioners

MANILA, Philippines — The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has raised its funeral benefit for government workers and qualified pensioners to P50,000 for all claims. GSIS said the one-time benefit was increased from P30,000, payable to a single qualified beneficiary or claimant, for deaths occurring on or after July 13. “Every family deserves support and dignity when they lose someone they love. Raising the funeral benefit to P50,000 means the GSIS stands beside our members’ families at the exact moment they need us most,” said GSIS president and general manager Wick Veloso. The GSIS said it would allocate up to P1.25 billion annually for the benefit, which is expected to help about 21,000 to 25,000 families nationwide. Coverage extends to eligible active members, separated members entitled to future retirement benefits, old-age pensioners and retirees who opted for retirement under Republic Act (RA) 1616 despite being of pensionable age under RA 8291. This also includes members who retired under RA 1616 before RA 8291 took effect, provided they had rendered at least 20 years of government service. Claimants must submit documentary requirements, including a death certificate, a valid government-issued identification card and other supporting documents, depending on their relationship to the deceased. Non-spouse claimants must also present proof that they paid the funeral expenses. Veloso said the funeral benefit is “one of the most immediate forms of assistance” given to GSIS members. The benefit is a one-time payment released to a single qualified claimant in order of priority: the legitimate spouse, the legitimate child who shouldered funeral costs or in their absence, any person who can prove payment of funeral expenses. GSIS’ funeral benefit is part of the administration’s commitment to public sector workers, pensioners and their dependents, consistent with the Bagong Pilipinas agenda and the President’s 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda.