US reps coming to Iloilo City on February 24-26 for vets benefits
Representatives from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Manila Regional Office will be in Iloilo City on February 24 to 26 to accept claims from Filipino World War II veterans for the benefits granted to them by the United States government.
The US Embassy in Manila, in its press report, encouraged Filipino WWII veterans in this part of the country to apply their claims in person at the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Iloilo at the Old Provincial Capitol Building, Iloilo City on the said dates.
“In order to provide effective, transparent service, claims will only be accepted from WWII veterans,” said the press report, adding “claims from spouses, widows and children of Filipino WWII veterans will not be accepted.”
If a veteran is unable to appear in person, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office will arrange to obtain the application in an appropriate manner.
When filing their claims, Filipino WWII veterans are requested to bring the following information and documentation:2 forms of Identification such as passport, driver’s license, Senior Citizen ID, Bureau of Post ID, etc.; VA claim number; Service Number; Philippine Veterans Affaris Office (PVAO)claim number; PVAO bank account number; and US Passport (if a U.S. citizen).
Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 which was signed by President Barack Obama last February 17, 2009, eligible Filipino WWII veterans will receive a one-time lump sum benefit payment.
“The United States has great respect for the bravery and service of Philippine WWII veterans and for their partnership with the U.S. military in defending freedom,” said the U.S. Embassy press report.
In accordance with the law, individual’s claim must be received by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs no later than February 16, 2010, which is one year from the date the historic legislation was signed. (LAFrench/PIA)