US Embassy starts countdown for RP vets claims application

The United States Embassy in Manila is reminding Filipino World War II veterans to make sure their claims application are submitted by February 16. An article posted on its Website said the US is urging applicants to beat the deadline, noting that the US government has so far disbursed P6.4 billion in one-time payment for some 11,300 Filipino WW II veterans who availed of the benefit package. "The one-time benefits are available to eligible veterans and widows of eligible veterans who applied before their death. Any change in the law to provide these additional benefits to other survivors would require new legislation in the US Congress. Every application is handled expeditiously so that qualified veterans receive their payments as quickly as possible," the Embassy said. It said that as of December 29, the US Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) approved the applications of more than 11,300 eligible Filipino WWII veterans or their widows. Of the P6.4 billion, half has gone to Filipino WWII veterans with American citizenship, and the other half to non-US citizen. "Each claim is unique and decided on its own merits. All veterans who feel they may be eligible are encouraged to apply immediately. The application process is free and simple, and there is no need to pay anyone to assist in completing the form, which can be mailed to the US Embassy," it said. Veterans sending applications by mail are encouraged to do so early enough to ensure its receipt by USDVA by the February 16 deadline. "Simply mailing the application by the deadline is not sufficient. It must be received by USDVA by the deadline," the Embassy said. Veterans can also submit their application in person to the USDVA offices at the US Embassy. Veterans can call USDVA at (632) 528-2500 or toll free outside Metro Manila at 1-800-1888-5252 for more information about this option. No appointments are necessary to file an initial application for this new benefit. Also, a final outreach activity will be conducted in Davao on February 11, 2010, at 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ramon Magsaysay Park, Leon Garcia St., Davao City. Veterans who have already applied for this one-time benefit will receive an acknowledgment receipt from USDVA. There is no need to submit multiple applications, nor any need to obtain additional military service information unless requested by USDVA. - LBG/RSJ, GMANews.TV