QC gov't clarifies senior birthday aid, reminds public to stay alert vs scams
By Hannah Nicol
The Quezon City government on Saturday, April 11, clarified that birthday assistance for senior citizens comes in the form of grocery packages, not cakes, and urged the public to remain vigilant against scams.
According to the city’s Public Information Office, the birthday packages are distributed monthly through barangays to registered beneficiaries based on the official list of QCitizens with senior citizen IDs. Each barangay sets its own schedule for distribution.
For bedridden seniors or those unable to go out, the assistance is delivered directly to their homes.
The city government reminded senior citizens not to open their doors to strangers and to verify the identity of anyone visiting their homes.
“Hinihikayat ang ating mga senior citizen na huwag basta-basta magbubukas ng pinto o magpapapasok ng mga hindi kilalang tao sa kanilang tahanan. Mahalaga ang kaligtasan, kaya’t makabubuting tiyakin muna ang pagkakakilanlan ng sinumang kumakatok o umiikot sa inyong komunidad (We encourage our senior citizens not to open their doors or allow entry to unknown individuals. For safety, it is important to verify the identity of anyone knocking or going around your community),” the city government said.
The local government also clarified that it does not distribute birthday cakes.
Residents were also advised to rely on official communication channels, including barangay announcements and verified social media pages, for accurate information on programs and schedules.
The city government said residents may contact QC Helpline 122 for inquiries and assistance.
It also called on families to remind elderly members to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity.
The local government urged senior citizens to stay alert and avoid letting unknown individuals into their homes, noting that some may take advantage of their situation.