The Philippine Senate has approved Senate Bill No. 2965, known as the Free Funeral Services Act, which aims to provide free funeral services to poor families in crisis situations.
Made for the “Poor”
Families considered “poor” under this act are those whose income falls below the poverty threshold as defined by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) or who cannot meet basic needs such as food, health, education, and housing. Additionally, families in crisis situations, including those affected by calamities or disasters, are eligible. Qualified families will receive a comprehensive funeral package that covers:
- Preparation of funeral documents
- Embalming services
- Interment or burial services
- Transportation of remains
- Cremation and inurnment services
- Provision of a casket, urn, or venue, as applicable.
These services will be provided by accredited funeral establishments across the country. Each establishment is required to offer a uniform indigent funeral package, regardless of location.
How to Avail the Services
To access the free funeral services, the bereaved family or representative must present the following:
- Valid identification card of the claimant or beneficiary
- Death certificate issued by the hospital, city/municipal health office, or a certification from the tribal chieftain
- Funeral contract signed by the family representative, the funeral establishment, and an authorized Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) personnel
- Social case study prepared by a registered social worker
The DSWD will lead the implementation of this measure, ensuring that eligible families receive the services. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will monitor and regulate market prices of funeral services, including caskets and urns, to prevent excessive pricing.
While the Senate has approved the bill, it is currently pending in the House of Representatives. Once enacted into law, the Free Funeral Services Act will provide significant relief to poor families during times of loss.
