In case you missed it, there’s now a law that guarantees free funeral services for indigent families across the country. Republic Act 12309, or the Free Funeral Services Act, lapsed into law on September 28, 2025.
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The measure aims to ease the burden of funeral expenses for families who cannot afford a proper burial. Under the law, the indigent funeral package will include the preparation of funeral documents, embalming, transport, burial or interment, cremation, and inurnment services. These will be provided through accredited funeral establishments offering a uniform package nationwide.
RA 12309 defines poor families as those whose income falls below the poverty threshold set by the Department of Economic Planning and Development, or households that cannot meet basic needs such as food, health, education, and housing under the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act (RA 8425).
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will lead the implementation of the law and determine families eligible for the program—including those in crisis situations, such as those affected by calamities or emergencies.
To avail of the free funeral services, beneficiaries must present a valid ID, a death certificate (or certification from a tribal chieftain), and a funeral contract signed by the family representative, the funeral establishment, and an authorized DSWD personnel. A social case study conducted by a registered social worker is also required.
Violators of RA 12309 may face a fine of up to ₱200,000 and suspension of license to operate for up to six months.
The law is expected to provide relief for low-income families, especially those already struggling with the high cost of living and end-of-life expenses.
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