Benefits for elderly sector pushed in bill

In a move to empower the country’s older persons, a proposed measure is being pushed at the House of Representatives that will provide a load of benefits and privileges to Filipinos aged 60 years old and above.

House Bill (HB) 975 also known as "The Magna Carta for Older Persons" filed by Rep. Cynthia Villar aims to put together in one law all existing and proposed measures concerning older persons to ensure self reliance and their capacity to attain a more meaningful and productive life.

In a statement, Villar said the bill’s objective is to provide benefits and privileges to older persons and institute mechanisms that will properly address their needs.

"The bill is a landmark legislation for older persons, one of the neglected sectors of our society. It is just but fitting for Congress to enact the bill the soonest possible time for the welfare of our older countrymen," Villar said.

Aside from the 20 percent fare discount presently enjoyed by older persons, additional perks will be given to them upon the Magna Carta’s enactment into law, including employment and educational opportunities, health and medical care, social services, and protection of their basic political and civil rights, Villar explained.

Under the bill, older person will be afforded with employment opportunities, livelihood training programs, and entrepreneurship skills and self-employment assistance to realize their worth as productive citizens.