As the 19th Congress nears adjournment, the Senate has approved on third and final reading a bill institutionalizing free funeral services for indigent families.
Senate Bill No. 2965, or the Free Funeral Services Act aims to ensure that poor families, especially those in crisis, are provided dignified funeral services at no cost, through a standardized Indigent Funeral Package coordinated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Under the proposed law, free funeral services will be made available nationwide to families whose income falls below the poverty threshold defined by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), or who are unable to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare as outlined in Republic Act No. 8425 or the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act.
“The death of a loved one should not be a burden, especially for those who are already struggling to make ends meet,” Sen. Imee Marcos, the bill’s sponsor, said.
“This bill ensures that even in death, there is dignity and compassion,” she furthered.
Under the approved measure, eligible beneficiaries include indigent families and those affected by disasters or emergencies, upon assessment by the DSWD.
Qualified recipients will receive the Indigent Funeral Package, which covers essential services such as the preparation of funeral documents, embalming, transportation, cremation or interment, and the provision of a casket, urn, or venue.
To avail of the benefit, families must present a valid ID, a death certificate or equivalent certification, a funeral contract signed by all parties, and a social case study conducted by a registered social worker.
Moreover, accredited funeral establishments across the country will be required to offer a uniform indigent funeral package, ensuring equal access regardless of location or type of service provider.
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