By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has increased its funeral benefit to ₱50,000, up from the previous ₱30,000, providing greater financial assistance to the families of deceased members and pensioners.
The enhanced one-time benefit takes effect for claims involving deaths that occurred on or after July 13, 2026, according to the state pension fund.
GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said the increase reflects the agency’s commitment to helping families cope with the financial burden brought about by the loss of a loved one.
“Every family deserves support and dignity when they lose someone they love,” Veloso said, adding that the higher benefit enables GSIS to provide more meaningful assistance during difficult times.
The pension fund estimates that 21,000 to 25,000 families nationwide will receive the upgraded funeral assistance annually. To finance the expanded program, GSIS has earmarked up to ₱1.25 billion each year.
Qualified beneficiaries include active GSIS members, separated government employees who remain entitled to future separation or retirement benefits, old-age pensioners, and eligible retirees under Republic Act Nos. 1616 and 8291.
The benefit likewise covers employees who retired under RA 1616 before the implementation of RA 8291, provided they completed at least 20 years of government service.
Under the revised guidelines, the ₱50,000 funeral benefit will be released to a single qualified claimant. Priority will be given to the surviving legitimate spouse, followed by a legitimate child who paid the funeral expenses.
If neither a spouse nor a legitimate child is available, another individual may file a claim upon presenting sufficient proof that he or she personally shouldered the burial expenses.
Applicants are required to submit the deceased member’s death certificate, a valid government-issued identification card, and other supporting documents prescribed by GSIS. Claimants other than the surviving spouse must also provide proof that they paid for the funeral.
The increase forms part of GSIS’ continuing efforts to strengthen social protection for government employees, retirees, pensioners, and their dependents by providing greater financial relief during times of bereavement.
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