Hiligaynon film, Mindanao short win Cinepanalo Film Festival 2025

Puregold CinePanalo’s student filmmakers along with Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad (fifth from left, back row); festival director Chris Cahilig (sixth from left, back row); representatives from the festival’s partners Optima Digital and Mowelfund; and members of the festival’s selection committee.

The STAR / File

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

March 21, 2025 | 9:01am

At the awarding ceremony in The Elements, Eton Centris in Quezon City early this week, “Salum” took home four Puregold CinePanalo trophies in the full-length category namely: Panalong Pelikula, Panalo sa Production Design, Panalo sa Sound Design, and Panalo sa Musical Scoring as well as a cash prize of P250,000.

Meanwhile, “Champ Green” received a P100,000 cash prize and five trophies in the student shorts category including Panalong Maikling Pelikula, Panalong Pangalawang Aktor for Sol Eugenio, Panalo sa Kwento, Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, and Mowelfund Special Citation. 

In addition, “Champ Green,” being the students shorts winner, also won film equipment including a Black Mist, a Dream Filter, a Blue Lightstreak Filter from MFP Rentals and Kase Philippines; a Nanlite FC 60B with Merch from MQ Group and Nanlite Philippines; and a Hollyland Lark C1 Wireless Microphone from Sieztech Enterprize and Hollyland Tech Philippines.

“Champ Green” also won an extra P25,000 for winning the Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, as did fellow short film “G!” and full-length film “Journeyman” who won the same award; as well as “Checkmate and Taympers,” who similarly tied for Pinakapanalong Promosyon ng Pelikula. Each of these sponsors gladly awarded “Champ Green” with the equipment in order to support the development of young Filipino filmmakers such as “Champ Green” director Clyde Cuizon Gamale.

In the full-length category, another Hiligaynon film “Tigkiliwi” nabbed seven trophies including Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Hurado and Panalo sa Kwento for its writer-director Tara Illenberger. The charming film about a community of misfits swept the acting awards categories including Panalong Aktres for Ruby Ruiz, and Panalong Pangalawang Aktor for Jeffrey Jiruma.  

In an interesting turn of events, two ties were declared during the awards night. The Panalong Aktor trophy was shared between JP Larroder as “Tigkiliwi’s Tata,” and Khalil Ramos as the titular Olsen in “Olsen’s Day” while both “Journeyman” and “Olsen’s Day” were declared the winners of the Panalo sa Cinematography category. Meanwhile, JP Habac of “Olsen’s Day” bagged the Panalong Direktor award. 

“Journeyman” by the sibling-tandem of Christian Paolo and Dominic Lat took home a total of six trophies namely: Panalo Sa International Jury, Panalo sa Cinematography (tie with “Olsen’s Day”), Panalo sa Film Poster, the MTRCB Special Award for Responsableng Paglikha, Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, and the Puregold Always Panalo Film which it shared with the romantic-comedy film “Fleeting” by Catsi Catalan. 

For the student shorts, “Uwian,” directed by Panalong Direktor winner Vhan Marco Molacruz of Colegio de San Juan de Letran crushed the competition, winning five different awards including Panalong Direktor, Panalo sa Musical Scoring, Panalo sa Production Design, Panalong Aktres for Geraldine Villamil, and Panalong Pangalawang Aktres for Uzziel Delamide. 

Other notable entries to the student shorts category included Sean Rafael Verdejo’s absurdist dramedy “Dela Cruz, Juan P.,” which took home Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Hurado; as well as Ira Corinne Esguerra’s coming-of-age sibling story “SamPie,” which took home the Puregold Always Panalo Film award.

Each award was deliberated upon by an impressive lineup of qualified judges, including Festival Director Christopher Cahilig, Festival Chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, and Republic Creative Creations, Inc. representative Sonny Bautista, each of whom sat on both the student shorts and full-length jury panels. Joining them on the students shorts panel were directors Emmanuel Dela Cruz and Victor Villanueva, as well as film critic Lito Zulueta. The full-length jury panel, on the other hand, consisted of Cahilig, Hayagan-Piedad, and Bautista, as well as directors Jeffrey Jeturian and Mae Cruz-Alviar, writer and producer Moira Lang, and Estonian filmmaker Tiina Lokk, the festival director of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.

This year’s CinePanalo saw increased grants for all entries, with P3,000,000 grants for full-length entries, and P150,000 grants for student shorts. The festival was also supported in large part by its partner organizations Terminal Six Post, CMB Film Services Inc., Gateway Cineplex 18, MFP Rentals, the MTRCB and the Mowelfund Film Institute.

“The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival will always be fueled by a deep love for the art of cinema, and an even deeper ambition to show what Philippine talent and passion has to offer,” said Festival Chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad. “With the CinePanalo having reached a successful second edition, the possibilities are now endless. We can’t wait for all the wonderful films yet to grace the Puregold CinePanalo in all the years to come.”

“Salum,” “Champ Green,” and all the other full-length and student short films of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2025 will continue to screen exclusively at the Gateway Cineplex 18, Cubao, Quezon City until the closing of the festival on March 25. Regular tickets are P250, with discounts available for students, PWDs, seniors, Tindahan ni Aling Puring, and Perks Card members for P200. Meanwhile, festival passes for the entire experience cost P2,000, granting holders entrance to all official movie entries.

The surprising story of the potato

From ancient roots to modern plates: The potato’s incredible journey

BY JESSICA PAG-IWAYAN

Mar 21, 2025 07:32 AM

  

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RUSSET potatoes—one of the many varieties grown in the U.S.

The humble potato. We mash it, bake it, fry it, and love it in countless ways. But how much do we really know about this versatile veggie? During the recent event of Potatoes USA, one of the leading importers of potatoes in the Philippines, the Manila Bulletin learned some fun facts about this well-loved root crop.

A global traveler

During the event, nutritionist and dietitian Joe Sebastian shared the origin of potatoes. She said that Inca Indians in Peru were the first cultivators of potatoes during the years 8,000 and 5,000 B.C. Meanwhile, other references said that in the 16th century, Spanish conquistadors brought potatoes back to Europe, and from there, they spread like wildfire, becoming a global food staple. 

A nutritional powerhouse

Since potatoes are known as a carbohydrates-packed food, some associated it with weight gain, especially for those who are into their fitness journey. However, the truth is, potatoes are a nutritional superhero in disguise. It's packed with complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, making it a favorite among athletes. A medium-sized, skin-on potato provides 26 grams of these power-packed carbs, giving you nine percent of your daily value needed. Plus, it's loaded with vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and even plant-based protein. 

On top of this, potatoes are naturally gluten-free, fat-free, sodium-free, and cholesterol-free, making it the perfect canvas for your culinary masterpieces like potato pasta, and even soup. 

LATTICE or basket-weave cut, a deep-fried frozen potato, is one of the many ways to prepare the versatile spud.

Space spuds 

Another interesting fact about this crop is in 1995, the potato boldly went where no vegetable had gone before: space. It was the first vegetable grown in space, proving its adaptability and resilience.  Back on Earth, the potato's versatility shines. 

U.S. potato farmers provide various gluten-free, fat-free, cholesterol-free, and sodium-free potatoes nationwide. They come in three forms: fresh, frozen, and instant (dehydrated). Plus, there’s a wide range of potato recipes to explore for pre-and post-workout meals at www.potatogoodness.ph.  Also, U.S. potato products provide the nutrition, versatility, and superior quality that will bring out the best in all your culinary masterpieces. They are easy to use, consistent, and readily available in a variety of formats all of which are graded based on standards of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The potato has come a long way from its humble beginnings. It's a global food staple, a nutritional powerhouse, and a culinary superstar. It's a must-have in every kitchen, bringing comfort, versatility, and deliciousness to every meal. So, next time you reach for a potato, remember its incredible journey and its amazing superpowers. 

FSTA to hold recital featuring violinist Kaycee Galano and pianist Inna Montesclaros

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Mar 20, 2025 03:26 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Tickets are priced at regular - P1,500; senior citizens and persons with disabilities - P1,200; and students - P1,000.

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The Filipino String Teachers Association (FSTA), in cooperation with St. Scholastica’s College, presents CAPRICE, a recital featuring violinist Kaycee Galano and pianist Inna Montesclaros at the Corazon Aquino Hall on April 5, 2025, at 6 p.m.

Galano, a rising artist recognized for her technical brilliance and expressive interpretations, has earned international competitions and performance accolades. 

Montesclaros, a graduate of the Royal College of Music and the Royal Academy of Music, has performed in renowned venues in London, New York, and Manila.

Tickets are priced at regular - P1,500; senior citizens and persons with disabilities - P1,200; and students - P1,000. Reserve your seat today at http://bit.ly/fstacaprice

Viral: Queen of Lip Sync Jane Mjs captivates hearts of netizens with performances of classic songs

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Mar 20, 2025 11:29 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Her social media is full of requests from followers who want to see her perform classic songs.

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Jane Mjs (Facebook)

Jane Mjs, a talented Filipino content creator, has been enchanting audiences on various social media platforms with her vibrant and lively lip-sync performances of cherished classic songs. 

Her performances feature simple gestures that breathe new life into these timeless melodies. This distinctive approach has not only captivated her audience but has also cultivated a loyal fanbase that eagerly awaits her next creative reinterpretation. 

Jane draws inspiration from iconic artists like Patsy Cline and Connie Francis, known for their emotive ballads that resonate with many, and Nora Aunor, a luminary in the Filipino music and film industry. She passionately embraces the artistry of lip-syncing. 

Her social media is full of requests from followers who want to see her perform classic songs. Jane puts a lot of effort into her posts. She spends time choosing beautiful outfits and styling her hair. 

Jane films her reels at home in Cavite, where she shows her life as a married stay-at-home parent. She blends her personal life with her creative work. She connects well with her audience and brings classic songs to life, highlighting her unique charm and talent.

As of March 20, Jane has 230,000 followers on Facebook. Check out her captivating performances on https://www.facebook.com/msjanemjs/reels/  

A German Expat in the Philippines (XIX): A Big Step towards The Future

 

International Day of Forests: A call to protect our lifeline

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Mar 20, 2025 07:32 AM

  

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Forests play a vital role in sustaining life on Earth. Tomorrow, March 21, the world observes the International Day of Forests (IDF) to encourage actions to protect forests which cover about 31 percent of the planet’s land area.

The increasing threats of deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss have made it more critical than ever to recognize forests as one of our planet’s most valuable natural resources.

Forests are disappearing at an alarming rate. According to Earth.org, globally, approximately 10 million hectares of forest are lost every year due to deforestation, largely driven by agriculture, logging, and urban expansion.

Forests, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing about 2.6 billion tons of CO2 annually, helping to slow global warming. Also, forests regulate rainfall patterns, prevent soil erosion, and reduce the risk of natural disasters like landslides and floods.

Beyond their environmental benefits, more than 1.6 billion people depend on forests for their livelihoods, whether through food, medicine, or employment. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the forestry sector provides employment for over 33 million people worldwide, supporting industries such as timber, paper, and non-timber products like nuts, resins, and medicinal plants. Ecotourism in forested areas also generates income for many countries while promoting conservation efforts.

This year’s IDF theme is “Forests and Foods,” a reminder of the importance of forests to human survival and environmental balance. About 80 percent of the world’s terrestrial species, including countless plants, animals, and microorganisms are in the forests, making them essential for biodiversity. 

Protecting forests requires a collective effort from governments, businesses, communities, and individuals. Preventing deforestation is the number one item in efforts to protect forests. Government and private corporations must enforce sustainable land-use policies, promote reforestation, and regulate logging activities to prevent large-scale deforestation.

Planting trees in deforested or degraded lands helps restore ecosystems. Many global initiatives, like the Billion Tree Campaign, encourage tree planting to counteract deforestation.

In the Philippines, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is launching the “Forests for Life” initiative on March 21, with an aim to plant five million fast-growing indigenous trees by 2028. The program aims to restore critical forest ecosystems to enhance biodiversity, improve water resources and mitigate soil erosion.  It also will quantify carbon sequestration annually from today to 2028, and over the following decade (2029-2038).

The DENR has identified priority areas for planting the five million trees – in the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Rizal, Leyte, Bataan, Bukidnon, and Lanao del Norte.

Another way to protect forests is through sustainable consumption. Consumers can help by choosing eco-friendly products such as certified sustainable wood and paper, as well as reducing their carbon footprint through energy conservation.

The global day for forests was first proposed at the European Conference on Forests in 1971, leading to the establishment of World Forestry Day. In 2012, the United Nations officially declared March 21 as the International Day of Forests to provide a more comprehensive and global approach to forest conservation.  IDF activities are led by the FAO. 

International Day of Forests is more than just a symbolic event; it is a crucial reminder that forests are indispensable to our planet’s health and our survival. Let us commit to being stewards of these vital ecosystems and ensure that our forests remain thriving for generations to come. 

Philippine Book Festival 2025 draws over 40,000 visitors, local publishers and authors elated with the overwhelming attention

The free four-day event attracted more than 40,000 visitors, further reaffirming its status as the country’s premier celebration focused solely on Filipino books, authors, and publishers.

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Mar 19, 2025 09:41 PM

  

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The National Book Development Board (NBDB) said the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2025, the country’s largest all-Filipino book festival, concluded on a high note amid a highly festive atmosphere after four exciting days. 

The free four-day event attracted more than 40,000 visitors, further reaffirming its status as the country’s premier celebration focused solely on Filipino books, authors, and publishers. 

 

 

The NBDB, which founded the PBF in 2023, decided to hold the event at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. It was the perfect venue since PBF 2025 was not just a gathering of the who’s who in publishing but also a transformative moment for the local book publishing industry. There, the authors, publishers, educators, and readers gathered in an unprecedented show of support for Philippine literature. 

 

Festival goers enjoyed browsing the thousands of books for sale, participated in the various exhibits, storytelling sessions, and even workshops for aspiring authors and illustrators. Visitors were in awe of the marvelous Pakyawan Plaza, which features an intricately designed Pahiyas-inspired bahay kubo. 

 

 

Other realms highlighted popular festivals like the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City, the famous Tuna Festival in General Santos City, and Panagbenga Festival of Baguio City. These four realms were all designed by renowned children’s book artists Pepot Atienza, Juno Abreu, Paul Eric Roca, and Danielle Florendo, respectively. 

Heightened visibility and record-breaking engagement

 

 

As soon as the doors opened, the air of excitement was felt all over. Filipino authors and publishers could not hide their excitement as they were at the center of an enthusiastic audience’s attention, with visitors eager to meet their literary idols, discover new stories, and celebrate the richness of local storytelling in the next four days. 

 

 

One author said the attention they received at the PBF 2025 was something that many other authors like himself can only dream of. Seeing the long lines of visitors eager to have their copy of the book signed by their favorite author was truly a sight to behold. He said that to see readers connect so deeply with their work is both humbling and inspiring.

 

 

For publishers, the agency’s support translated into heightened visibility and record-breaking engagement. Many expressed deep gratitude to the agency for its continuous and untiring efforts in elevating the Philippine book publishing industry to an even higher level. Kyra Ysabel, a solo exhibitor and independent publisher, was thankful for the PBF: “As a solo exhibitor and an indie publisher with only two books out, I sold about 150 copies in four days. It wouldn’t have been possible without this platform.”
 

Nida Ramirez of 19th Avenida Publishing House, the publisher behind the best-selling Trese series, also shared about her experience: “We're very happy, because this is a very successful Philippine Book Festival iteration. In terms of sales, what I can say is our sales last year from the entire 2024 PBF was our sale just for just Day 1 this year.”
 

Another exhibitor, PaperKat Books’ Head of Publishing Kath Eustaquio-Derla, shared  that they were able to exceed their target sales three times, adding that the new venue likely helped draw more visitors: “The natural foot traffic and the easy access to public transportation helped in getting more people to come in and check out the event."

 

 

A historic boost for public schools and libraries

 

One of the festival’s most impactful outcomes was the landmark ₱3 billion worth of books procured for distribution to public schools and libraries nationwide—an investment that will empower millions of Filipino students with access to homegrown literature and learning materials. The scopers from the Department of Education (DepEd) carefully reviewed books for potential inclusion in public schools and libraries, received assistance and expert guidance from the NBDB’s book counselors, another innovative idea introduced by the NBDB for this year’s festival. This made the scoping process not only efficient but also engaging, allowing the scopers to explore a diverse selection of quality books that align with educational needs.

 

 

“With the help of NBDB’s book counselors, the scoping process of our partners from DepEd was more seamless and insightful than ever before,” according to NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade. “They were able to select books that will truly enrich the learning experience of students across the country.”

 

A festival that continues to elevate Philippine literature

 

 

After four fruitful days, the resounding success of the Philippine Book Festival 2025 proved to be a strong testament to the increasing appreciation for Filipino-authored books, and the critical role of initiatives introduced by the NBDB in fostering a thriving literary ecosystem.

 

 

With overwhelming public support, engaged publishers, and a historic milestone in book procurement for public schools, the festival also stands as a firm attestation of the power of literature in shaping the nation’s future.

 

What are the miracles in our daily life?

 

What are miracles in life? A miracle is an event that is inexplicable by natural or scientific laws and accordingly gets attributed to some supernatural or preternatural cause.

Still, there are other miracles that we tend to forget: The sun rises and sets each day; small seeds grow into mighty trees; the many components of our body work together, enabling us to breathe, run, dream, and eat.

Allow me to move your view to other wonders, to supernatural happenings or to a prodigy. A "miracle" (from the Latin "miraculum") can be actually found at any corner of our daily life. I am not yet talking about the so-called miracle plays, the popular medieval form of drama based on the lives of the Saints or on Biblical history.

Let's begin with ourselves. Can you still see the doors of opportunity just opened for you? Why is it that so many people nowadays get tired instead of discovering their own "VIP" within? The bible clearly states that God has "crowned us with glory and honour" (Psalm 8:5). "Honour" is equal to "favour"... .  To assist, to provide with special advantages and to receive preferential treatment... .

No, these are indeed and definitely miracles. This should be common sense, but it seems that many of us have forgotten it!

In November 1981, my mother was diagnosed with cancer and given just a few months to live. Spread cancer! Some doctors told me that they reached their limits on what they could do. My father left us during that time. I lived more than 500 miles away from our home in Berlin.

She passed away seven years ago at the age of 92 living in Davao together with all of us.

Can miracles happen in real life? Yes, then even in the most impossible situations, miracles can become possible. The good thing about miracles is that we don't have to wait for them to happen. They happen every day and sometimes even little changes are enough to see big miracles.

Yes. We have a supernatural God. I say this, without thinking about special religious directions or ministries. We all believe in one God. As a Christian I would explain it as follows: He is not limited to the laws of nature. He can do what human beings cannot. He can make a way in our life.

Let us not imagine how hopeless a situation looks like. We  may not be a priest, pastor or preacher, but we can mix our simple words with God's words and something powerful begins to happen. Miracles in life? Yes. But we should pray for it and believe in Him.

There is purpose and meaning in my life, even if it is chaotic. Miracles can happen in the chaos. Meaning can come out of madness

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You can email me: doringklaus@gmail.com or follow me on Facebook or LinkedIn or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or www.klausdoringsclassicalmusic.blogspot.com .

FEAR OF GETTING OLDER

 

Gerascophobia is an abnormal or incessant fear of growing older or ageing (senescence). Fear is characterised as an unpleasant emotion experienced as a result of some perceived threat or source of danger, in the case of gerascophobia that threat is ageing.

For some, it's a fear of the physical changes that come with aging. For others, it's the fear of losing their independence and becoming a burden on their loved ones. And for many, it's the fear of death itself.

Do you have a fear of aging? We all do, to some extent. Just take a look at what the media and pop culture promote on a daily basis – it seeps with promotions straight from the fountain of youth.

Take it a step further — do you also worry about what will happen when you die?

Unfortunately, many people, especially older adults, feel scared and anxious about aging and death.

As you age, some fears dissipate, yet fears about being over-the-hill can creep into your daily life.

Fear of not living up to expectations, fear of taking risks, fear of retirement, and a fear of the future.

The fear of getting older is something that everyone faces at some point in their life, but what we don’t realize is how much power this fear really holds over us and how it can affect every aspect of our lives if left unchecked.

No matter what form your fear takes, it can be a debilitating force in your life. It can make you worry about things that are far into the future and prevent you from enjoying the present moment.

Sadly, society sees old age as something undesirable and something to be afraid of. And not only could this not be further from the truth, but it’s also a form of ageism — social discrimination against older people.

People worry about losing their looks, their health, and their independence. But there’s no need to fear aging. It’s a natural process that happens to everyone. And it can be a beautiful time of life if you’re mentally, emotionally, and spiritually prepared for it.

We also fear death because it represents the end of our life as we know it. We’re afraid of all the things we’ll never get to do, see, or experience. Death is final, and that can be scary.

Just remember it’s about how you live your life, and not when you die, that matters. Instead of focusing on your fears, focus on living your life to the fullest and enjoying every moment without having to look back with any regret.

To make the most of your time and to help you embrace the journey ahead, read on for six tips on how to overcome the fear of aging and death.

Or the first time in human history, we have entered an era in which reaching old age is taken for granted. Unlike in ages past, when living to an older age was a luxury afforded mainly to the privileged, globally around 79% of women and 70% of men can expect to reach the age of 65 and beyond.

Despite longer life expectancy, many people in the contemporary west see growing old as undesirable and even scary. Research shows, however, that anxiety about ageing may in fact be fear of the unknown.

Society’s focus on youthfulness and capability can cause anxiety about becoming weak and unwanted. Adverts for anti-ageing products are everywhere, reinforcing the idea that growing older is inherently unattractive.

You can educate yourself about what to expect as you age. There’s a lot of misinformation out there about getting older, so it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you’re automatically going to be frail, sick, and unable to enjoy life.

Not to mention, there’s increasing research uncovering the deep impact of trauma, stress, lifestyle, and mental state on the way that you heal and age — regardless of your family history and genetic makeup.

So it’s worth educating yourself about aging and dying. Lifelong knowledge is power, and understanding the aging process and what to expect can help you come to terms with your fear. One of the best ways to combat your fear of aging and death is to live in the present moment and reap the benefits of mindfulness. When you’re focused on what’s happening right now, it’s difficult to worry about things that haven’t happened yet.

I am soon approaching the age of 72. So what! Living in the Philippines for more than 25 years together with my Philippine family. I couldn't live somewhere alone. I am blessed. I never fear aging or death. Maybe it's my lifestyle here in the Philippines. Allow me to tell this to you: One of the best ways to combat your fear of aging and death is to live in the present moment and reap the benefits of mindfulness. When you’re focused on what’s happening right now, it’s difficult to worry about things that haven’t happened yet.

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Email: doringklaus@gmail.com or follow me on Facebook or Linkedin  or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or www.klausdoringsclassicalmusic.blogspot.com .

Rente wird ab 1. Juli erhöht – dennoch bekommen Hunderttausende nicht mehr Geld

Stand:

19.03.2025, 19:04 Uhr

Von: Kai Hartwig 

Die Renten steigen schon bald, aber viele Senioren haben trotzdem keinen Cent mehr auf ihrem Konto. Die Grundsicherung ist der entscheidende Faktor.

München – Die Rentenerhöhung am 1. Juli dürfte vielen Senioren erfreuen. Doch unter Deutschlands Rentnern gibt es über 700.000 Menschen, denen das nichts bringt. Ihre Leistungen werden vielmehr noch gekürzt. Der entscheidende Faktor dabei: Die Grundsicherung. 

Zwar steigen ab 1. Juli 2025 die Renten in Deutschland um 3,74 Prozent an, wie das Statistische Bundesamt und die Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV) angeben. Für Bundesarbeitsminister Hubertus Heil (SPD) „eine gute Nachricht für Rentner“ – aber eben nicht für alle.

Rente wird ab 1. Juli erhöht – Wer Grundsicherung erhält, profitiert nicht davon

Denn alle Rentner, die Grundsicherung beziehen, werden von der Rentenerhöhung nicht profitieren. Die aktuellen Daten des Statistischen Bundesamts vom September 2024 zeigen, dass immer mehr Rentner in Deutschland auf zusätzliche Hilfsleistungen angewiesen sind. Zu diesem Zeitpunkt erhielten 730.305 Rentner die sogenannte Grundsicherung. Und die wird vollständig auf die Rente angerechnet. 

Die Rentenerhöhung ab Juli 2025 verhilft nicht allen Senioren zu mehr Geld. © Frank Hoermann/Sven Simon/Imago

Auf der DRV-Website wird erläutert, welche Bereiche von der Grundsicherung abgedeckt werden sollen. Folgendes zählt dazu:

• Den notwendigen Lebensunterhalt.
• Aufwendungen für Unterkunft und Heizung
• Kranken- und Pflegeversicherungsbeiträge
• Vorsorgebeiträge
• Mehrbedarf für bestimmte Personengruppen
• Hilfe in Sonderfällen 

Leistungskürzung trotz Rentenerhöhung für Senioren mit Grundsicherung

Die DRV erklärt, dass die Höhe der Grundsicherung vom Einkommen und Vermögen abhängt. Dabei wird auch das Einkommen der Ehepartnerin oder des Ehepartners beziehungsweise der Partnerin oder des Partners in einer ehe- oder lebenspartnerschaftsähnlichen Gemeinschaft berücksichtigt. Erst wenn das Einkommen der Kinder von Rentnerinnen und Rentnern mehr als 100.000 Euro im Jahr beträgt, wird darauf zurückgegriffen.

Rentner aufgepasst: Das sind die besten Länder für die Rente

Fotostrecke ansehen

Zum Einkommen zählen „Renten und Pensionen jeder Art aus dem In- und Ausland“, so die DRV. Auch die Riesterrente wird angerechnet, wobei seit 2018 ein Betrag von 100 Euro anrechnungsfrei bleibt und darüber hinaus 30 Prozent bis zu einem Höchstbetrag nicht angerechnet werden. Im Gegensatz dazu werden die Grundrente nach dem Bundesversorgungsgesetz und Leistungen aus einer freiwilligen zusätzlichen Altersvorsorge nicht als Einkommen betrachtet. Der Rentenfreibetrag, der laut ihre-vorsorge.de in den meisten Fällen bei 281,50 Euro liegt, bleibt ebenfalls unberührt. „Dies gilt immer dann, wenn die Bruttorente – also die Rente vor Abzug der Sozialversicherungsbeiträge – 705 Euro oder höher ist“, erläutert das Portal.

Für eine Standardrente bei durchschnittlichem Verdienst und 45 Beitragsjahren bedeutet die Rentenerhöhung ab Juli 2025 einen monatlichen Anstieg um 66,15 Euro. Für Rentner, die zusätzlich Grundsicherung beziehen, ist die Erhöhung jedoch keine positive Nachricht. „Da die Regelsätze bei allen Sozialhilfeleistungen unverändert bleiben, ändert sich für Senioren, die (meist als Aufstockung einer niedrigen Rente) Grundsicherung im Alter beziehen, nichts. Durch die Rentenerhöhung zum 1. Juli 2025 wird die Sozialamts-Leistung sogar ab diesem Zeitpunkt gekürzt“, berichtet ihre-vorsorge.de. Eine Tabelle zeigt, wie viel Geld Rentnerinnen und Rentner ab Juli erhalten werden. (kh)