PB asks Congress to expand seniors law

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Board (PB) is seeking the inclusion of food and mineral supplements among the items to be sold to senior citizens at discounted prices that are free of value added tax (VAT).

This, after the PB passed a resolution sponsored by Board Member Thadeo Ouano requesting both the Senate and the House of Representatives to amend the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.

Ouano said that consistent with the constitutional principles, it is now ripe to review the law whether it has served its purpose and if privileges given to the elderly are enough to help ease their financial burdens.

The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 provided that purchase of medicines and drugs, medically-prescribed vitamins and supplements, and some vaccines, by and for senior citizens must be given a 20 -percent discount. They must also be VAT exempt.

But Ouano noticed that food and mineral supplements are not covered by the law, even though these are very important for the dietary needs and maintenance of good health of the senior citizens.

He said there are food and mineral supplements that are taken by senior citizens that do not need doctor’s prescription, which are very helpful in improving their appetites and helping them maintain good health, which supports their active lifestyle.

Thus, he said, the law must be amended to address the need.

He said food and mineral supplements are important for the elderly the law must be amended to address the need. (FREEMAN)