MANILA (October 15) — A new law granting free funeral services to poor and crisis-hit families has officially lapsed into law, offering long-awaited relief to many Filipinos who struggle to afford burial or cremation costs.
Malacañang Palace confirmed Monday that Republic Act 12309, or the “Free Funeral Services Act,” took effect on September 28 after lapsing without the signature of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr..
The program will be led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which will cover funeral costs for indigent families and those affected by disasters or emergencies.
Accredited funeral homes nationwide will be required to offer an “indigent funeral package” that may include embalming, a casket or urn, transport, and other basic services.
To claim the aid, families must submit a valid ID, death certificate, a DSWD-approved funeral contract, and a social case study. The Department of Trade and Industry will regulate costs, while violators face fines of up to ₱400,000 and possible permit suspension.
Funding will come from DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.
Implementing rules must be released within 60 days.
The law takes effect just weeks before Undas, when millions of Filipinos honor their departed loved ones.
