Councilor pushes birthday cash gift for senior citizens

CEBU, Philippines - Councilor Edward Alesna, chairman of the committee on budget and finance, has recommended for approval the granting of a birthday gift in the form of cash to senior citizens. 

In his committee report, Alesna said there is enough funds for the city to grant cash gifts to the elderly.

“The Committee on Budget Management highly recommends to the Sangguniang Panlungsod the approval of the proposed resolution upon the availability of funds on 2014 Annual Budget,” Alesna’s report read.

The proposal was introduced by Councilor Valeriano “Val” Ylanan in the 4th Sangguniang Panlungsod but it was deferred for review and study. 

Ylanan proposed resolution seeks the granting of P2,500 to the elderly on their birthdays. 

But Alesna said the amount is still to be studied. 

Alesna added that city recognizes the important role of senior citizens play in society.

Section 1 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9257, otherwise known as the “Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003,” Article XV, section 4 of the Constitution further declares that it is the duty of the family to take care of its elderly members while the State may design programs of social security for them.  (FREEMAN)