The City Government of Zamboanga and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to automate the distribution of financial assistance to senior citizens using LBP's Pera Inimpok Savings Option (Piso) account.
Signing ceremony
Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso and LBP-Zamboanga Branch Head Ruby Rose Estipona led the signing on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the City Hall media room. The agreement establishes an automated system for releasing aid to the city's elderly residents.
Mayor's statement
Olaso said the initiative fulfills a campaign promise he made during the 2025 local elections. He emphasized that using automated teller machines (ATMs) will ensure the assistance is secure and reaches senior citizens more quickly. The system will also prevent some officials from politicizing the release of financial aid.
Bank's perspective
Estipona explained that the Piso account guarantees direct receipt of financial assistance by senior citizens. She noted that it offers easier, safer, and more convenient access to their benefits. The account can be opened with a deposit of just P1.00 and requires no maintaining balance. The bank will conduct orientation sessions together with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to guide senior citizens in enrolling in the program.
Implementation plan
The Piso account will first be pilot tested in one village before expanding to other villages across the city.
Beneficiary data
CSWDO records indicate approximately 80,000 senior citizens in Zamboanga City. However, Olaso said a validation process will be conducted to ensure all recipients are bona fide residents entitled to receive P1,000 quarterly financial assistance under the city government's Largo Vida (Long Life) program.
Witnesses
The MOA signing was witnessed by CSWDO Head Socorro Rojas, Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Mayor Celso Lobregat, Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) head Roberto Arseña, and LBP Acting Branch Operations Officer Vicente Obonga.
