Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

SEVENTEENTH (ONGRESS
Third Regular Session

House Bill No.

AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL POLICY FOR THE
MAINTENANCE AND WELFARE OF SENIOR CITIZENS BY PROVIDING A
COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEM OF BENEFITS, GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE AND
SUBSIDY AND OTHER PRIVILEGES, FURTHER AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT
NO. 7432, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "AN ACT TO MAXIMIZE,
THE CONTRIBUTION OF SENIOR CITIZENS TO NATION BUILDING, GRANT,
BENEFITS AND SPECIAL PRIVILEGES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES"

INTRODUCED BY REP. IMELDA ROMUALDEZ MARCOS

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The enactment of Republic Act No. 7432 into law and its subsequent amendments paved
way to the institutionalization of a national policy that secks to promote the well-being of the
elderly members of the society. This law translated the government’s commitment to fulfil a
constitutional mandate to realize the social development goals benefitting all its citizens, and
to establish the dynamic enabling environment to achieve such development. Several years
have passed, the benefits, privileges, assistance, subsidies and support services provided to
senior citizens seem insufficient and lacking as their concerns and needs are still the
primordial concern of the government. The inevitable changes in society and the uristeady
economic situation have great impact to the living conditions of older persons. At present,
there are about cight (@) million senior citizens in the country and expected to double by
2020.

This legislative proposal which secks to amend existing policies on senior citizens
aims (o strengthen and enhance their basic and inalienable rights by crafting a more coherent
and comprehensive overall framework that promotes their independence, care, participation,
self-fulfilment and dignity; safeguards them against the insidious age discrimination that they
face in their access to economic and social support services; protects them from the physical
and psychological abuse they are subjected to resulting from societal prejudices that prevent
them from the enjoyment of rights in their twilight years and advances their social, economic
and cultural inclusion into mainstream development processes by harnessing and empowering
their productive capacities so that the country will continue to gain from their knowledge and
expertise, Also, through this, more efforts shall be exerted to give them equal opportunities

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The Bill further envisages that senior citizens will be able to live and participate
actively in a society that guarantees their rights, recognises their capabilities and
contributions, and facilitates their enjoyment of a life of fulfilment, health and security and
enhances the value and worth of senior citizens to the country. All stakeholders, including
family, community, private sector, civic organisations, and the Government must work
together to respond to the needs of senior citizens.

Moreover, as a signatory to international covenants and agreements such as the
United Nations Plan of Action on Ageing, the government is further mandated to implement
the seventeen development goals or SDGs which clearly identify our elderty as a vital part of
international development. Goal No. 3 which seeks to "ensure healthy lives and promote
well-being for all at all ages” provides a clear framework to governments and other
development actors that the welfare of older people must be taken into account.

‘Therefore, this measure which seeks to expand the privileges and support provided by
the State such as financial security, health care, shelter, welfare and other needs of older
persons, to afford strong protection against abuse and exploitation, to grant access to
opportunities for development of the potential of older persons, to maximize their
participation in nation building, to provide services so that they can improve the quality of
their lives and to enhance their accessibility by remove socio-cultural, economic and physical
barriers so they can continue to contribute more effectively to the development of the family,
the community and the society must be considered and approved for the benefit of all senior
citizens and the incoming senior citizens in the country.

Premises considered, the approval of this Bill is earnestly sought.

“Pre,

REP. IMELDA ROMUALDEZ MARCOS


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Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
Third Regular Session
House Bill No. 0561

INTRODUCED BY REP. IMELDA ROMUALDE:

[AR

Ss

AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL POLICY FOR THE
MAINTENANCE AND WELFARE OF SENIOR CITIZENS BY PROVIDING A
COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEM OF BENEFITS, GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE AND
SUBSIDY AND OTHER PRIVILEGES, FURTHER AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT
NO. 7432, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "AN ACT TO MAXIMIZE
THE CONTRIBUTION OF SENIOR CITIZENS TO NATION BUILDING, GRANT,
BENEFITS AND SPECIAL PRIVILEGES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES"

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

Section 1. Section 1 of Republic Act No. 9994, otherwise known as the "Expanded Senior
Citizens Act of 2010" is hereby amended to read as follows:

"Section 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Comprehensive National Policy for
Senior Citizens Act.”

Sec. 2. Section 1 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994,
otherwise known as the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003" is hereby reinstated to read
as follows:

"" Sec. 2. Declaration of Policies and Objectives. ~ As provided in the Constitution of the
Republic of the Philippines, it is the declared policy of the State to promote a just and
dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free
the people from poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full
employment, a rising standard of living and an improved quality of life. In the Declaration of
Principles and State Policies in Article II, Sections 10 and 11, it is further declared that the
State shall provide social justice in all phases of national development and that the State
values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights.

“Article XIII, Section 11 of the Constitution provides that the State shall adopt an integrated
and comprehensive approach to health development which shall endeavor to make essential
goods, health and other social services available to all the people at affordable cost. There
shall be priority for the needs of the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women and
children. Article XV, Section 4 of the Constitution Further deciares 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.

“Consistent with these constitutional principles, this Act shall serve the following objectives:


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“(a) To recognize the rights of senior citizens to take their proper place in society and make it
a.concem of the family, community, and government;

“(b) To give full support to the improvement of the total well-being of the elderly and their
full participation in society, considering that senior citizens are integral part of Philippine
society;

“(c) To motivate and encourage the senior citizens to contribute to nation building;

“(d) To encourage their families and the communities they live with to reaffirm the valued
Filipino tradition of caring for the senior citizens;

“(e) To provide a comprehensive health care and rehabilitation system for disabled senior
citizens to foster their capacity to attain a more meaningful and productive ageing; and

“(f) To recognize the important role of the private sector in the improvement of the welfare of
senior citizens and to actively seek their partnership.

“In accordance with these objectives, this Act shall:
“(1) establish mechanisms whereby the contributions of the senior citizens are maximized;

“(2) adopt measures whereby our senior citizens are assisted and appreciated by the
community as a whole;

“(3) establish a program beneficial to the senior citizens, their families and the rest of the
community they serve: and

“(4) establish community-based health and rehabilitation programs for senior citizens in
every political unit of society.”

Sec. 3. Section 2 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994,
otherwise known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003", is hereby further amended to
read as follows:

"Sec. 3. Definition of terms. ~ For purposes of this Act, these terms are defined as follows:

“(a) Senior citizen or elderly refers to any resident citizen of the Philippines at least [sixty
(60} FIFTY SIX (56) years old;

“(b) Geriatrics refer to the branch of medical science devoted to the study of the biological
and physical changes and the diseases of old age;

“(©) Lodging establishment refers to a building, edifice, structure, apartment or house
including tourist inn, apartelle, motorist hotel, and pension house engaged in catering, leasing
or providing facilities to transients, tourists or travelers;

“(d) Medical Services refer to hospital services, professional services of physicians and other
health care professionals and diagnostics and laboratory tests that the necessary for the
diagnosis or treatment of an illness or injury;

“(e) Dental services to oral examination, cleaning, permanent and temporary filling,
extractions and gum treatments, restoration, replacement or repositioning of teeth, or

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alteration of the alveolar or periodontium process of the maxilla and the mandible that are
necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of an illness or injury;

“(D) Nearest surviving relative refers to the legal spouse who survives the deceased senior
citizen: Provided, That where no spouse survives the decedent, this shall be limited to
relatives in the following order of degree of kinship: children, parents, siblings, grandparents,
grandchildren, uncles and aunts;

“(g) Home health care service refers to health or supportive care provided to the senior
citizen patient at home by licensed health care professionals to include, but not limited to,
physicians, nurses, midwives, physical therapist and caregivers; and

“(h) Indigent senior citizen, refers to any elderly who is [frail, sickly or with disability, and]
without pension, [or] permanent source of income, OR compensation [or financial assistance
from his/her relatives] to support [his/her] THE SENIOR CITIZEN'S basic needs, as
determined by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in consultation
with the National Coordinating and Monitoring Board.”

“(1) GRANDPARENTS-AS-PARENTS REFER TO SENIOR CITIZENS WHO ARE
SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REARING, EDUCATION, HEALTH AND
FOSTER CARE OF THEIR MINOR GRANDCHILDREN.”

“(J) NUTRITIONAL FOOD AND DRINKS REFER TO ANY FOOD OR BEVERAGE
PRODUCT APPROVED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION WHICH,
CONTAINS MICRONUTRIENTS AND WERE FORMULATED TO MEET THE
DIET OF SENIOR CITIZENS AND INDIVIDUALS WHO SUFFER FROM POOR
DIGESTION, MALNUTRITION, OBESITY, RENAL PROBLEMS AND ILLNESSES
LIKE DIABETES, HYPERTENSION, CANCER AND OTHER SIMILAR CASES.”

“(K) FOOD SUPPLEMENTS ARE CONCENTRATED SOURCES OF NUTRIENTS
WHICH ARE TAKEN AS A DIETARY TOP-UP SUCH AS FISH OIL AND A
WHOLE LIST OF VITAMINS AND CONTAIN HIGHER AMOUNTS OF
NUTRIENTS THAN ARE FOUND IN MOST FOODS.”

Sec. 4. Section 4 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994,
otherwise known as the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010" is hereby amended to read
as follows:

" Sec. 4. Privileges for the Senior Citizens. —
The senior citizens shall be entitled to the following:

“(a) the grant of twenty percent (20%) discount FOR THOSE WHO ARE FIFTY SIX (56)
YEARS OLD BUT NOT MORE THAN 70 YEARS OLD; THIRTY PERCENT (30%)
DISCOUNT FOR THOSE ARE 70 YEARS OLD BUT NOT MORE THAN 80 YEARS
OLD; FORTY PERCENT (40%) DISCOUNT FOR THOSE WHO ARE 80 YEARS
OLD BUT NOT MORE THAN 90 YEARS OLD; AND FIFTY PERCENT (50%)
DISCOUNT FOR THOSE ARE 90 YEARS OLD OR OVER; and exemption from the
value-added tax (vat) if applicable, on the sale of the following goods and services from all
establishments PURCHASED OR AVAILED OVER THE COUNTER OR THROUGH
ONLINE TRANSACTION, for the exclusive use and enjoyment or availment of the senior
citizen:


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“(1) on the purchase of medicines, including the purchase of influenza and pneumococcal
vaccines, and such other essential medical supplies, accessories and equipment to be
determined by the Department of Health (DOH).

“The DOH shall establish guidelines and mechanism of compulsory rebates in the sharing of
burden of discounts among retailers, manufacturers and distributors, taking into consideration
their respective margins;

(2) on the professional fees of attending physician/s in all private hospitals, medical
facilities, outpatient clinics and home health care services;

“@3) on the professional fees of licensed professional health providing home health care
services as endorsed by private hospitals or employed through home health care employment
agencies;

“(4) on medical and dental services, diagnostic and laboratory fees in all private hospitals,
medical facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health care services, in accordance with the
rules and regulations to be issued by the DOH, in coordination with the Philippine Health
Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth);

hue ip at Fmt) Mn Ratt To QA) and Fhe Noa
Railways-(PNR);

“{(D] () on the utilization of services in hotels and similar lodging establishments,
restaurants and recreation centers;

“{(8) on admission fees charged by theaters, cinema houses and concert halls, circuses,
leisure and amusement; and]

“{(9)] (6) on funeral and burial services for the death of senior citizens;

(7) ON VEHICLE REGISTRATION FEES FOR THOSE OWNED BY SENIOR
CITIZENS;

(8) ON RENEWAL OF PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY COMMISSION (PRC)
LICENSE;

(9) ON BANK TRANSACTION FEES:

(10) ON CLOTHES, FOOTWEAR AND OTHER CLOTHING APPARELS FOR THE
USE ONLY OF SENIOR CITIZENS;

(11) ON THE PURCHASE OF ASSISTIVE DEVICES SUCH AS VISUAL AIDS,
HEARING AIDS, WHEELCHAIRS, CRUTCHES AND OTHER PRODUCTS AND
SERVICES THAT SUPPORT THE MOBILITY AND PHYSICAL ACUITIES OF
SENIOR CITIZENS WHICH HAVE DECLINED DUE TO AGEING; AND

(12) ON THE PURCHASE OF FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA)-
APPROVED FOOD SUPPLEMENT, NUTRITIONAL FOOD AND DRINK;
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“(b) exemption from the payment of individual income taxes of senior citizens who are
considered to be minimum wage earners in accordance with Republic Act No. 9504;

“(c) the grant of a [ minimum of] MONTHLY [five percent (5%)] TEN PERCENT (10%)
discount [relative to the monthly utilization of water and electricity) TO THE FIRST ONE
HUNDRED KILOWATT HOURS (100 KWH) OF ELECTRICITY AND THE FIRST
THIRTY CUBIC METERS (30 M3) supplied by the public utilities, AND EXEMPTION
FROM VALUE-ADDED TAX (VAT): Provided, That the individual meters for the
foregoing utilities ae registered in the name of the senior citizen residing therein: [Provided

sno und tt hours (100,
Iy-of electricity and thiey—cubie-meters (30-m3)-of water] Provided, [furthermore]
FURTHER, That the privilege is granted per houschold regardless of the number of senior
citizens residing therein;

“(d) exemption from training fees for socioeconomic programs;

“(e) free medical and dental services, diagnostic and laboratory fees such as, but not limited
to, ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAMINATION, x-rays, computerized tomography scans,
CARDIAC STRESS TEST, ENDOSCOPY, ULTRASOUND ON KIDNEYS, URETER
AND BLADDER, PULMONARY FUNCTIONAL TESTS, and blood tests INCLUDING
PROFESSIONAL FEES OF ATTENDING PHYSICIANS, in all government HEALTH
CARE facilities, subject to the guidelines to be issued by the DOH in coordination with the
PhilHealth.

IN THE AVAILMENT OF THE ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAMINATION, THE
INDIGENT SENIOR CITIZENS SHALL BE PRIORITIZED OVER NON-INDIGENT
SENIOR CITIZENS IN THE ORDER THEY SHALL BE SERVED;

“(f) the DOH shall administer free vaccination against the influenza virus and pneumococcal
disease for indigent senior citizen patients;

“(g) educational assistance to senior citizens to pursue post secondary, tertiary, post tertiary,
vocational and technical education, as well as short-term courses for retooling in both public
and private schoois through provision of scholarships, grants, financial aids, subsides and
other incentives to qualified senior citizens, including support for books, learning materials,
and uniform allowances, to the extent feasible: Provided, That senior citizens shall meet
minimum admission requirements;

“(hy to the extent practicable and feasible, the continuance of the same benefits and privileges
given by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the Social Security System
(SSS) and the PAG-IBIG, as the case may be, as are enjoyed by those in actual service;

“(i) retirement benefits of retirees from both the government and the private sector shall be
regularly reviewed to ensure their continuing responsiveness and sustainahility, and to the
extent practicable and feasible, shall be upgraded to be at par with the current scale enjoyed
by those in actual service;

“(j) to the extent possible, the government may grant special discounts in special programs
for senior citizens on purchase of basic commodities, subject to the guidelines to be issued for
the purpose by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of
Agriculture (DA);

“(k) provision of express lanes for senior citizens in all commercial and government
establishments; in the absence thereof, priority shall be given to them; [and]
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“()) death benefit assistance of a minimum of Two thousand pesos (Php2, 000.00) shall be
given to the nearest surviving relative of a deceased senior citizen which amount shall be
subject to adjustments due to inflation in accordance with the guidelines to be issued by the
DSWD, IN ADDITION TO A FUNERAL AND BURIAL ASSISTANCE OF FIFTEEN
THOUSAND PESOS (P15,000.00) TO BE GIVEN TO ANY PERSON WHO
SHOULDER THE EXPENSES INCURRED;

“(M) ADDITIONAL GRANT OF A MINIMUM OF FIVE PERCENT (5%)
DISCOUNT AND EXEMPTION FROM THE VALUE-ADDED TAX (VAT), IF
APPLICABLE, FOR GRANDPARENT-AS-PARENT ON THE SALE OF GOODS
AND SERVICES FROM ALL ESTABLISHMENTS PROVIDED UNDER THIS ACT
ALTHOUGH NOT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE USE AND BENE! OF THE SENIOR
CITIZEN, PROVIDED, THAT THE GRANDPARENT-AS-PARENT REGISTERS AS
SUCH WITH THE OSCA; PROVIDED FURTHER, THAT IN SCHOOLS WHERE
THE GRANDCHILDREN OF THE GRANDPARENT-AS-PARENT ARE
ENROLLED MUST BE INFORMED THAT SUCH STUDENT IS UNDER THE SOLE.
CARE AND RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SENIOR CITIZEN;

(N) EXEMPTION FROM PASSPORT PROCESSING F' AS WELL AS TRAVEL
TAXES, TERMINAL FEES, OTHER FEES AND CHARGES LEVIED IN
AIRPORTS, PORTS, OR OTHER TERMINALS BY THE GOVERNMENT, ANY OF
ITS AGENCIES OR INSTRUMENTALITIES, OR BY GOVERNMENT-OWNED OR
CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS;

(0) FREE PARKING IN ALL COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS AND
FACILITIES CHARGING PARKING FEES FOR VEHICLES REGISTERED
UNDER THE NAME OF THE SENIOR CITIZEN;

(P) EXEMPTION FROM THE UNIFIED VEHICULAR VOLUME REDUCTION
PROGRAM (UVVRP), COMMONLY CALLED NUMBER OR COLOR-CODING
FOR PRIVATE VEHICLES BOARDED BY SENIOR CITIZENS, IRRESPECTIVE
OF OWNERSHIP AND VEHICLES REGISTERED UNDER THE NAME OF A
SENIOR CITIZEN, REGARDLESS WHETHER THE OWNER SENIOR CITIZEN IS
A PASSENGER OR NOT. FOR THIS PURPOSE, THE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION SHALL IMPLEMENT MECHANISMS IN THE ISSUANCE OF
STICKERS AND/OR SPECIAL PLATES,

(Q) FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE AND SERVICES, INCLUDING COURT,
ACCEPTANCE AND APPEARANCE FEES, IN ALL CRIMINAL, QUASI-JUDICIAL
OR ADMINISTRATIVE CASES FILED AGAINST SENIOR CITIZENS EXCEPT
NECESSARY AND ACTUAL EXPENSES INCURRED, SUCH AS, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, PHOTOCOPYING AND COURIER SERVICES, AND
CONTINGENCY FEES NOT EXCEEDING TWENTY PERCENT (20%) OF THE
AMOUNT AWARDED AND ACTUALLY RECOVERED IN SAID CASE, EXCEPT
THE FOLLOWING CONTROVERSIES OR CASES:

1) ANY INFORMATION FILED AGAINST A SENIOR CITIZEN FOR
COMMISSION OF CRIMES INVOLVING MORAL TURPITUDE;

2) ANY VIOLATION OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 3019, OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS THE ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT, AND OTHER
CASES COGNIZABLE BY, PENDING BEFORE OR ORIGINATING FROM
THE SANDIGANBAY AN;


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3) INTRA-CORPORATE DISPUTES; AND

4) ANY CASE FILED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FAMILY CODE,
EXCEPT IN CASES OF GUARDIANSHIP

(R) THE GRANT OF FIFTY PERCENT (50%) DISCOUNT AND EXEMPTION
FROM VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT) ON ACTUAL TRANSPORTATION FARE FOR
DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL AIR TRANSPORT SERVICES AND
SHIPPING VESSELS AND THE LIKE, BASED ON THE ACTUAL FARE AND
ADVANCED BOOKING AND ON ACTUAL FARE FOR LAND
TRANSPORTATION TRAVEL IN PUBLIC UTILITY BUSES (PUBS), PUBLIC
UTILITY JEEPNEYS (PUJS), TAXIS, ASIAN UTILITY VEHICLES (AUVS),
SHUTTLE SERVICES AND PUBLIC RAILWAYS, INCLUDING LIGHT RAIL
TRANSIT (LRT), MASS RAIL TRANSIT (MRT), AND PHILIPPINE NATIONAL
RAILWAYS (PNR);

(S) EXEMPTION FROM THE PAYMENT OF DRIVER’S LICENSE FEES

(1) FREE ADMISSION IN THEATERS, CINEMA HOUSES AND CONCERT
HALLS, CIRCUSES, LEISURE AND AMUSEMENT; AND

(U) EXEMPTION FROM THE PAYMENT OF REAL PROPERTY TAX AND ANY
TAX ON REAL PROPERTY OWNED AND REGISTERED UNDER THE NAME OF
THE SENIOR CITIZEN AND HAS OCCUPIED THE SAID PROPOERTY,
WHETHER CONTINUOUS OR BROKEN FOR A PERIOD OF NOT LESS THAN
TEN (10) YEARS PRIOR TO THE ATTAINMENT OF AGE OF SENIORITY.

“In the availment of the privileges mentioned above, the senior citizen, or his/her duly
authorized representative, may submit as proof of his/her entitled thereto any of the
following:

“(1) an identification card issued by the Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) of the
place where the senior citizen resides: Provided, That the identification card issued by the
particular OSCA shall be honored nationwide;

(2) the passport of the senior ci

concerned; and

“(3) other documents that establish that the senior citizen is a citizen of the Republic and is at
least [sixty (60)] FIFTY SIX ($6) years of age as further provided in the implementing rules
and regulations.

"NOT WITH STANDING THE GUIDELINES, POLICIES, RULES AND
REGULATIONS ISSUED =BY GOVERNMENT = AGENCIES — OR
INSTRUMENTALITIES IMPLEMENTING THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT, ALL
PERSONS, ENTITIES, FIRMS, ESTABLISHMENTS, COMPANIES, OFFICES, AND
FACILITIES COVERED BY THIS ACT AND ITS RULES AND REGULATIONS
SHALL, ASIDE FROM THE SENIOR CITIZENS CARDS ISSUED BY THE OFFICE
OF THE SENIOR CITIZENS AFFAIRS (OSCA), HONOR ANY GOVERNMENT-
ISSUED IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS INDICATING A SENIOR CITIZEN OR
ELDERLY'S BIRTHDATE OR AGE SUCH AS BUT NOT LIMITED TO HIS OR
HER PASSPORT, DRIVER'S LICENSE, VOTERS ID, SS/GSIS ID, PRC CARD, OR
POSTAL ID, TO ESTABLSIH THE ENTITLEMENT OF THE SENIOR CITIZEN TO
THE BENEFITS AND PRIVILEGES PROVIDED UNDER THIS ACT AND ITS
IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS. IT IS FURTHER PROVIDED

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THAT THE OSCA ID AND SUCH GOVRNMENT-ISSUED IDS SHALL BE
HONORED NATIONWIDE."

“In the purchase of goods and services which are on promotional discount, the senior citizen can avail
of the promotional discount or the discount provided herein, whichever is higher. HOWEVER,
GOODS AND SERVICES SHALL ONLY BE CONSIDERED AS ON
PROMOTIONAL DISCOUNT IF THE SALES PROMOTION IS DULY APPROVED
BY THE DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY (DTD) AND THE DTI
APPROVAL CONTROL NUMBER IS CONSPICUOUSLY DISPLAYED AND
SHOULD BE PRESENTED TO THE SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE ELDERLY WHEN
DEMANDED. OTHERWISE, IF THE SALE PROMOTION IS A PERSONAL
UNDERTAKING BY THE FIRM OR ESTABLISHMENT WITHOUT PRIOR
APPROVAL BY THE DTI, WHATEVER SELLING PRICE IT OFFERS TO THE
PUBLIC FOR SUCH ITEM, GOODS OR SERVICES SHALL BE THE BASIS OF
THE DISCOUNT TO WHICH THE SENIOR CITIZEN SHALL BE ENTITLED,
INCLUDING THE VAT EXEMPTION WHEN APPLICABLE. "

IN CASE THE AVAILMENT OF THE SERVICES IS DONE THROUGH ONLI
TRANSACTIONS, THE DISCOUNTS SHALL BE APPLIED AUTOMATICALLY
FOR THIS PURPOSE, ALL ESTABLISHMENTS SHALL ESTABLISH A
MECHANISM THAT WILL APPLY THE SAME DISCOUNTS IF SUCH PRODUCT
OR SERVICE WAS PURCHASED OVER-THE-COUNTER, SUBJECT TO THE
CONDITIONS STIPULATED UNDER THIS ACT.

“The establishment may claim the discounts granted under subsections (a) and (c) of this
section as tax deduction based on the cost of the goods sold or services rendered: Provided,
‘That the cost of the discount shall be allowed as deduction from gross income for the same
taxable year that the discount is granted: Provided, further, That the total amount of the
claimed tax deduction net of VAT, if applicable, shall be included in their gross sales receipts
for tax purposes and shall be subject to proper documentation and to the provisions of the
National Internal Revenue Code (NICR), as amended.”

A NEW SECTION DESIGNATED AS SEC. 4-A IS HEREBY ADDED TO READ AS.
FOLLOWS:

SEC. 4-A. PRIVILEGES FOR ELDERLY RESIDENT ALIENS. - THE PRIVILEGES
GRANTED TO SENIOR CITIZENS UNDER THIS ACT AND THE CONDITIONS
THERETO SHALL APPLY TO ELDERLY RESIDENT ALIENS, HEREBY
DEFINED AS FOREIGN NATIONALS RESIDING IN THE PHILIPPINES WHO
ARE AT LEAST SIXTY (60) YEARS OF AGE.

IN AVAILING OF THESE PRIVILEGES, THE ELDERLY RESIDENT ALIEN, OR
HIS/HER DULY AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE, MAY SUBMIT AS PROOF
OF ENTITLEMENT THERETO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

(1) AN IDENTIFICATION CARD ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF SENIOR
CITIZEN AFFAIRS (OSCA) OF THE PLACE WHERE THE ELDERLY
RESIDENT ALIEN RESIDES: PROVIDED THAT THE IDENTIFICATION
CARD ISSUED BY THE PARTICULAR OSCA SHALL BE HONORED
NATIONWIDE;

Q) PHILIPPINE RETIREMENT AUTHORITY IDENTIFICATION CARD;
AND

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(3) ALIEN CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION I-CARD, AND (4) OTHER
DOCUMENTS THAT ESTABLISH THAT THE ELDERLY RESIDENT
ALIEN IS AT LEAST SIXTY (60) YEARS OF AGE AND A RESIDENT OF
‘THE PHILIPPINES, AS FURTHER PROVIDED IN THE IMPLEMENTING
RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THIS ACT.

TAX DEDUCTION SHALL BE ALLOWED TO ESTABLISHMENTS SUBJECT TO
THE CONDITIONS PROVIDED UNDER THIS ACT.

Sec. 5. Section 5 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994,
otherwise known as the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003" is hereby amended to read
as follows:

“Sec. 5. Government Assistance. ~ The government shall provide the following:
“(a) Employment

“Senior citizens who have the capacity and desire to work, or be re-employed, shall be
provided information and matching services to enable them to be productive members of
society. Terms of employment shall conform with the provisions of the Labor Code, as
amended, and other laws, rules and regulations.

TO ENSURE ACCESS TO EMPLOYMENT, EDUCATION, TRAININGS, SKILLS
DEVELOPMENT AND EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT SERVICES SHALL BE MADE
AVAILABLE FOR SENIOR CITIZENS. A TASK FORCE HEADED BY THE
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT (DOLE) AND THE CIVIL
SERVICE COMMISSION (CSC) SHALL BE CREATED TO REDESIGN JOBS AND
HUMAN RESOURCE SYSTEMS SUITABLE TO SENIOR CITIZENS SHALL BE
CREATED. FURTHERMORE, DOLE, IN COORDINATION WITH THE
TECHNOLOGY AND LIVELIHOOD RESOURCE CENTER (TLRC) AND THE
DEPARTMENT AND TRADE AND INDUSTRY (DTD AND OTHER PUBLIC AND
PRIVATE AGENCIES, SHALL ASSESS, DESIGN AND IMPLEMENT TRAINING
PROGRAMS THAT WILL PROVIDE SKILLS GEARED TOWARDS THE
IMPROVEMENT OF THE LIVELIHOOD OF SENIOR CITIZENS. ALL
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES SHALL BE ENCOURAGED TO INSTITUTE A
SENIOR CITIZEN EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM THAT WILL PROVIDE
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE ELDERLY SUCH AS CLERICAL OR,
SECRETARIAL WORKS, CONSULTANCY, CLEANING OR JANITORIAL
SERVICES, EVENT ORGANIZING, TEACHING, KITCHEN HELP, SALES
ASSISTANCE, CALL CENTER JOBS, AND SUCH OTHER JOBS OR VOLUNTEER
WORKS THAT MAY NOT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THEIR PHYSICAL WELL-
BEING.

LIVELIHOOD AND JOB GENERATION PROGRAMS AIMED TOWARDS
PROMOTING AND INCREASING SENIOR CITIZENS’ PRODUCTIVITY SHALL
BE IMPLEMENTED THROUGH THE CREATION OF TECHNOLOGY AND
LIVELIHOOD CENTERS IN EVERY CITY OR MUNICIPALITY.

“Private entities that will employ senior citizens as employees, upon the effectivity of this
Act, shall be entitled to an additional deduction from their gross income, equivalent to
[fifteen percent (15%)] TWENTY FIVE PERCENT (25%) of the total amount paid as
salaries and wages to senior citizens, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THE INCOME
TAX RETURN WAS FILED UNDER THE ITEMIZED DEDUCTION OR
OPTIONAL DEDUCTION SYSTEM AND, subject to the provision of Section 34 of the

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NIRC, as amended: Provided, however, That such employment shall continue for a period of
at least six (6) months: Provided, further, That the annual income of the senior citizen does
not exceed the latest poverty threshold as determined by the National Statistical Coordination
Board (NSCB) of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) for that year.

“The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in coordination with other government
agencies such as, but not limited to, the Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC)
and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTD, shall assess, design and implement training
programs that will provide skills and welfare or livelihood support for senior citizens.

“(b) Education

“The Department of Education (DepED), the Technical Education and Skills Development
Authority (TESDA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in consultation with
nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and people’s organizations (POs) for senior citizens,
shall institute programs that will ensure access to formal and nonformal education.

ALL EDUCATIONAL INSTITITUTIONS, BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE, SHALL
ALSO BE REQUIRED TO INCORPORATE IN THEIR CURRICULUM AT ALL
STAGES OF BOTH FORMAL AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION MATERIALS
THAT WILL STRENGTHEN AND FACILITATE INTERACTIONS WHEREBY
THE SENIOR CITIZEN WITH PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND
KNOWLEDGE IN SCIENCE, ARTS, ENVIRONMENT, SOCIO-CULTURAL
HERITAGE, SPORTS AND OTHER AREAS COULD INTERACT WITH
CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULTS. FURTHERMORE, THEY SHALL INSITUTE
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES THAT WILL ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT
THE TRAININGS AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS TO
BOOST THEIR EMPLOY ABILITY.

TO INCREASE AND UNDERSTANDING AND AWARENESS OF AGEING ISSUES,
RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND TRAINING AND OTHER EDUCATIONAL
PROGRAMMES RELEVANT AND RESPOSNIVE TO THE NEEDS OF SENIOR
CITIZENS SUCH AS LIFELONG EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR AGEING
PREPARATION AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
SHALL BE INSTITUTED TO ALLOW SENIOR CITIZENS TO REMAIN
ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN AS MANY SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY
ACTIVITIES AS POSSIBLE.

“(c) Health

TO COPE WITH HEALTH ISSUES AND THEIR ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS
WHICH MAY BE CHRONIC, MULTIPLE, IMPAIR FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY,
REQUIRE CONSTANT ATTENTION AND LONG TERM MANAGEMENT AND
CARRY THE RISK OF DISABILITY AND CONSEQUENT LOSS OF AUTONOMY,
THE GOVERNMENT SHALL DESIGN CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS THAT
ADDRESS AFFORDABILITY AND AVAILABILITY OF HEALTH SERVICES
THAT MEET THE HEALTH CARE NEEDS OF SENIOR CITIZENS.

“The DOH, in coordination with local government units (LGUs), NGOs and POs for senior
citizens, shall institute a national health program and shall provide an integrated health
service for senior citizens. It shall train community-based health workers among. senior
citizens and health personnel to specialize in the geriatric care and health problems of senior
citizens.

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HEALTH SERVICE PROGRAMS WHICH CONSIST OF PREVENTION,
CURATIVE AND REHABILITATIVE ACTIVITIES, HOME AND HOSPICE CARE,
MEDICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT FOR PATIENTS REQUIRING
CONTINUED MEDICAL ASSISTANCE AFTER DISCHARGE AND THE
DEVELOPMENT AND PROVISION OF GERIATRIC TRAINING AT THE FAMILY
AND COMMUNITY LEVEL SHALL BE MADE AVAILABLE IN ALL.
GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE HOSPITALS, AS WELL AS LOCAL HEALTH
FACILITIES.

“The national health program for senior citizens shall, among others, be harmonized with the
National Prevention of Blindness Program of the DOH. A NATIONAL SENIOR VISION
SERVICES PROGRAM FOR SENIOR CITIZENS WITH F! TONAL VISUAL
IMPAIRMENTS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH
SHALL BE ESTBALISHED AS AN EXPANSION OF EXISITNG BLIND OR
VIUALLY IMPAIRED SERVICES PROVIDED BY LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS.

“Throughout the country, there shall be established a “senior citizens’ ward” in every
government hospital. This geriatric ward shall be for the exclusive use of senior citizens who
are in need of hospital confinement by reason of their health conditions. However, when
urgency of public necessity purposes so require, such geriatric ward may be used for
emergency purposes, after which, such “senior citizens’ ward” shall be reverted to its nature
as geriatric ward.

THE GOVERNMENT SHALL FURTHER ENSURE THAT GOVERNMENT
HOSPITALS OR HOSPITALS FULLY OR PARTIALLY FUNDED BY THE
GOVERNMENT SHALL RESERVE BEDS FOR ALL SENIOR CITIZENS,
INSTITUTE A SYSTEM THAT WILL NOT SUBJECT SENIOR CITIZENS TO
LONG QUEUES, AND ALLOT SEPARATE COUNTERS FOR THEIR MEDICAL
TESTS AND TREATMENTS. RESEARCH ACTIVITIES FOR CHRONIC ELDERLY
DISEASE AND AGEING SHALL BE EXPANDED AND THE FACILITIES FOR
GERIATRIC CARE IN EVERY DISTRICT HOSPITAL SHALL BE EARMARKED.

TO ADDRESS PROBLEMS OF ACCESSIBILITY AND USE OF HEALTH
SERVICES BY THE ELDERLY DUE TO DISTANCE, ABSENCE OF ESCORT AND
UNAVAILABILITY OF MODE OF TRANSPORTATION, THE GOVERNMENT
SHALL PROVIDE MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES, SPECIAL CAMPS AND
AMBULANCE SERVICES.

FOR THE BENEFIT OF THOSE CHRONICALLY ILL AND DEPRIVED OF
FAMILY SUPPORT, HOSPICES AND PRIVATE NURSING HOMES SHALL BE
SUPPORTED TO ENABLE THEM TO CATER TO CASES OF ABANDONMENT
OF CHRONICALLY ILL AGED PATIENTS.

IN ENSURING THAT THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY ARE
PROPERLY GIVEN, EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL ON THE PROPER FOODS
SUITABLE FOR THEM SUCH AS RECIPES SUITING TASTES OF DIFFERENT
REGIONS WHICH ARE NUTRITIOUS, TASTY, FIT INTO THE DIETARY
PATTERN OF THE FAMILY AND THE COMMUNITY SHALL BE
DISSEMINATED.

“(d) Social Services

WELFARE SERVICES SHALL BE PROVIDED TO THE MOST VULNERABLE
AMONG OLDER PERSONS ON A PRIORITY BASIS. SERVICES PROVIDED BY

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NONGOVERNMENTAL AND VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATIONS SHALL BE
PROMOTED AND STRENGTHENED THROUGH GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY OR
DISCOUNT.

“At least fifty percent (50%) discount shall be granted on the consumption of electricity,
water, and telephone by the senior citizens center and residential care/group homes that are
government-run or non-stock, non-profit domestic corporation organized and operated
primarily for the purpose of promoting the well-being of abandoned, neglected, unattached,
or homeless senior citizens, subject to the guidelines formulated by the DSWD.

SERVICES PROVIDED BY SENIOR CITIZENS CENTERS AND RESIDENTIAL
CARE/GROUP HOMES SHALL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

“(1) “self and social enhancement services” which provide senior citizens opportunities for
socializing, organizing, creative expression, and self-improvement;

“(2) “after care and follow-up services” for citizens who are discharged from the homes or
institutions for the aged, especially those who have problems of reintegration with family and
community, wherein both the senior citizens and their families are provided with counseling;

“(3) “neighborhood support services” wherein the community or family members provide
caregiving services to their frail, sick, or bedridden senior citizens; and

“(4) “substitute family care” in the form of residential care or group homes for the
abandoned, neglected, unattached or homeless senior citizens and those incapable of self-
care.

INSTITUTIONAL CARE SHALL BE CONSIDERED THE LAST RESORT WHEN
CIRCUMSTANCES ARE SUCH THAT STAY IN HOMES FOR THE AGED
BECOMES ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY.

“(e) [Housing] SHELTER

GOOD HOUSING AND SOUND SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENTS WHICH ARE
IMPORTANT TO THE WELL-BEING OF THE ELDERLY CAN PROMOTE THEIR
GOOD HEALTH AND LONGEVITY. AS SUCH, THE GOVERNMENT MUST.
INSTITUTE REASONABLE HOUSING AND OTHER SHELTER PROGRAMS
WHERE THEY CAN RECEIVE PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE, EMOTIONAL
SUPPORT AND LOW-COST COMMUNITY-BASED ACTIVITIES.

“The national government shall include in its national shelter program the special housing
needs of senior citizens, such as establishment of housing units for the elderly AND
ADOPTING HOUSING SCHEMES OFFERING REASONABLE RATES, EASY
REPAYMENT INSTALLMENTS, TIME BOUND CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULES
AND TAX RELIEF.

FOR SENIOR CITIZENS WHO ARE INDIGENT, ABANDONED AND WITH NO
ONE TO TAKE CARE OF THEM, THE GOVERNMENT, THROUGH THE
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT, SHALL
ESTABLISH NURSING HOMES AND FACILITIES FOR THEIR RESPITE CARE.

“(f) Access to Public Transport

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“The [Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC)] DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION (DOT®) shall develop a program to assist senior citizens to fully gain
access to public transport facilities.

UNDER THIS PROGRAM, ALL PUBLIC UTILITY VEHICLES (PUV), PUBLIC
UTILITY BUSES (PUB), RAIL TRANSPORT PROVIDERS, AND AIR AND SEA
TRANSPORT PROVIDERS, SHALL RESERVE AND DESIGNATE THE BEST
POSSIBLE SEATS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS AS DETERMINED BY DOTR, IN
COORDINATION WITH THE LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND
REGULATORY BOARD (LTFRB), THE PHILIPINE NATIONAL RAILWAYS
(PNR), THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT AUTHORITY (LRTA), THE MARITIME
INDUSTRY AUTHORITY (MARINA), THE CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY OF
THE PHILIPPINES (CAAP), AND THREE (3) REPRESENTATIVES FROM
REPUTABLE AND CONCERNED CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS, AS
RECOMMENDED BY THE DOTR.

‘THE PRIORITY SEATS SHALL BE CLEARLY LABELLED TO INDICATE THAT
PASSENGERS MAY USE THEM BUT MUST VACATE THEM IF THEY ARE
NEEDED BY AN ELDERLY PASSENGER. PASSENGERS WHO ARE PREGNANT
OR WITH DISABILITIES SHALL BE EXEMPTED FROM THIS PROVISION.

COMMERCIAL AIR AND SEA TRANSPORT PROVIDERS SHALL ENSURE THAT
PRIORITY SEATS ARE MADE AVAILABLE TO ELDERLY PASSENGERS
DURING THE RESERVATION OF SEATS. ELDERLY PASSENGERS MAY NOT
BE TRANSFERRED TO OTHER SEATS OR BUMPED OFF WITH AT LEAST ONE
(1) WEEK OF PRIOR NOTICE AND WITHOUT VALID REASON.

FURTHER, SENIOR CITIZENS SHALL BE AFFORDED SPECIAL PRIVILEGES
ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES AND AMENITIES INCLUDING BUT NOT
LIMITED TO THE PRIORITY HANDLING AND ASSISTANCE DURING
TICKETING, SECURITY CHECK, CHECK-IN, IMMIGRATION, BOARDING,
DISEMBARKATION, LUGGAGE PICK-UP AND CUSTOMS CLEARANCE AND
MOBILITY ASSISTANCE.

“(g) Incentive for Foster Care

“The government shall provide incentives to individuals or nongovernmental institution
caring for or establishing homes, residential communities or retirement villages solely for,
senior citizens, as follows:

“(1) realty tax holiday for the first five (5) years starting from the first year of operation; and

“(2) priority in the construction or maintenance of provincial or municipal roads leading to
the aforesaid home, residential community or retirement village.

“(h) Additional Government Assistance

“(1) Social Pension

OLDER PERSONS HAVE VERY LIMITED SOCIO-ECONOMIC MEANS TO
SUSTAIN THEIR DAY-TO-DAY LIVING. AS SUCH, FINANCIAL SECURITY

EVOKES GREAT ANXIETY TO THEM. PENSIONS WHICH WILL PROVIDE
SOME LEVEL OF SECURITY SHALL BE GIVEN PRIORITY. THE BASE OF

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SOCIAL PENSIONS NEEDS TO BE CONSIDERABLY EXPANDED TO INCREASE
ITS PURCHASING POWER.

“[Indigent] ALL senior citizens WHO ARE NOT RECEIVING ANY PENSION FROM
PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEM SUCH THE
GOVERNMENT SERVICE INSURANCE SYSTEM AND SOCIAL SECURITY
SYSTEM shall be entitled to a monthly stipend amounting to [Five hundred pesos
(Php500.00)] TWO THOUSAND PESOS (P2,000.00) to augment the daily subsistence and
other medical needs of senior citizens, subject [to a review every two (2) years by Congress,
in consultation with the DSWD.] TO ADJUSTMENTS ONCE EVERY THREE @)
YEARS USING THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX, AS PUBLISHED BY THE
PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY (PSA).

HOWEVER, INDIGENT SENIOR CITIZENS SHALL BE ENTITLED TO TWICE
THE AFOREMENTIONED AMOUNT OR AMOUNT GRANTED TO NON-
INDIGENT SENIOR CITIZENS.

“(2) Mandatory PhilHealth Coverage

“All indigent senior citizens shall be covered by the national health insurance program of
PhilHealth. The LGUs where the indigent senior citizens resides shall allocate the necessary
funds to ensure the enrollment of their indigent senior citizens in accordance with the
pertinent laws and regulations.

“(3) Social Safety Nets

“Social safety assistance intended to cushion the effects of economics shocks, disasters and
calamities shall be available for senior citizens. The social safety assistance which shall
include, but not limited to, food, medi -s, and financial assistance for d ile repair, shall
be sourced from the disaster/calamity funds of LGUs where the senior citizens reside, subject
to the guidelines to be issued by the DSWD.”

INDIGENT SENIOR CITIZENS SHALL RECEIVE ONE (1) SACK EVERY
QUARTER AS A FOOD SUBSIDY TO ENABLE THEM TO EXTEND THEIR:
ALREADY LIMITED FINANCIAL RESOURCE WHICH ARE UTILIZED FOR
THEIR OTHER NEEDS SUCH AS MEDICINE.

STOP-GAP MECHANISMS OR URGENT AND IMMEDIATE RESPONSES SHALL
BE INSTITUTED TO SHIELD SENIOR CITIZENS FROM VULNERABILITIES
ARISING FROM DISASTER, EMERGENCY AND TEMPORARY DISPLACEMENT
DUE TO INTERVENING FACTORS THAT PREVENT THEM TO LIVE
COMFORTABLY.

(4) WELFARE FUND

A WELFARE FUND FOR THE SENIOR CITIZENS SHALL BE SET UP. FUNDING
SUPPORT SHALL BE OBTAINED FROM CONTRIBUTIONS GIVEN BY THE
GOVERNMENT, CORPORATE SECTOR, TRUSTS, CHARITIES, INDIVIDUAL
DONORS AND OTHERS. SUCH CONTRIBUTIONS AND DONATIONS WILL BE
GIVEN TAX RELIEF.

THE FUND SHALL BE UTILIZED TO SUPPORT PROGRAMS THAT SEEK TO
REDUCE POVERTY AND VULNERABILITY TO RISKS OF SENIOR CITIZENS
AND ENHANCE THEIR SOCIAL STATUS AND RIGHTS BY PROMOTING AND

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PROTECTING THEM AGAINST HAZARDS AND SUDDEN LOSS OF INCOME,
IMPROVING THEIR CAPACITY TO MANAGE RISKS AND PROVIDING FREE
TREATMENT AND MEDICINES TO INDIGENT ELDERLY PATIENTS.

($8) ASSISTANCE TO NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS

NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS) THAT PROVIDE
AMBULATORY SERVICES, DAY CARE, HEALTH CARE AND SERVICES THAT
COMPLEMENT THE EFFORTS OF THE STATE SHALL BE GIVEN ASSISTANCE.
THROUGH GRANTS-IN-AIDS, VARIOUS CONCESSIONS AND RELIEF. GRANT-
IN-AIDS WILL ENCOURAGE NGOS TO RAISE THEIR OWN RESOURCES TO
ENABLE THEM TO PROVIDE SERVICES ON A SUSTAINABLE BASIS.

(6) SOCIAL INSURANCE

ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT THROUGH OTHER INNOVATIVE
SOCIAL INSURANCE AND PENSION SCHEMES ESPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR
FAMILIES CARING FOR SENIOR DEPENDENTS SHALL BE
INSTITUTIONALIZED TO GUARAN' THAT SENIOR CITIZENS ARE
ADEQUATELY PROTECTED FROM LOSS OF INCOME AND UNEMPLOYMENT.

(@) PROTECTION OF LIFE AND PROPERTY

AS THE ELDERLY BECOME SOFT TARGETS OF CRIMINAL ELEMENTS AND
ARE VULNERABLE TO FRAUDULENT DEALINGS AND OF PHYSICAL AND
EMOTIONAL ABUSE WITHIN THE HOUSEHOLD BY FAMILY MEMBERS WHO
MAY FORCE THEM TO PERFORM ACTS AGAINST THEIR WILL OR INIMICAL.
TO THE CONSTITUTION AND OTHER EXISTING LAWS, RULES AND
REGULATIONS, PROTECTIVE SERVICES THROUGH HELPLINE SERVICES,
LEGAL AID AND OTHER POLICE MEASURES TO BE TAKEN ON MATTERS
SUCH AS PREVENTION OF UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY, HIRING OF DOMESTIC
HELP OR CAREGIVERS AND HANDLING OF CASH AND VALUABLES SHALL,
BE MADE AVAILABLE TO SENIOR CITIZENS.

THERE SHALL BE ESTABLISHED A GRIEVANCE DESK IN COURTS TO
ENABLE SENIOR CITIZENS TO INITIALLY LODGE COMPLAINTS ON CASES
OF COMMUNITY MALTREATMENT, PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND FINANCIAL
ABUSE, SEXUAL EXPLOITATION, NEGLECT AND ABANDONMENT.

SEC. 6. A NEW SECTION IS ADDED TO BE DESIGNATED AS SEC. 6, TO READ
AS FOLLOWS:

"SEC. 6. ROLE OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION. - WHILE THE
STATE ALONE CANNOT PROVIDE ALL SERVICES NEEDED BY OLDER
PERSONS, NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS — (NGOS) ARE
RECOGNIZED AS IMPORTANT INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS OF THE
GOVERNMENT IN PROVIDING SERVICES THAT COMPLEMENT THE STATE’S,
PROGRAMS FOR THE SENIOR CITIZENS. AS SUCH, VOLUNTARY EFFORTS
TO REMEDY INSUFFICIENCY SHALL BE PROMOTED IN ALL LEVELS
THROUGH NETWORKING, EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION ND
INTERACTIONS BETWEEN THE STATE AND NGOS TO ENSURE BETTER
SERVICES. TRUSTS, CHARITIES, RELIGIOUS AND OTHER ENDOWMENTS
SHALL BE ENCOURAGED TO EXPAND THE SERVICES TO THE ELDERLY."

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SEC. 7. A NEW SECTION IS ADDED TO BE DESIGNATED AS SI
AS FOLLOWS:

2. 7, TO READ

"SEC. 7. ROLE OF SENIOR CITIZENS ORGANIZATIONS.- SENIOR CITIZENS
SHALL BE ENCOURAGED TO ORGANIZE THEMSELVES AND FORM
INFORMAL GROUPS OF THEIR OWN TO SATISFY THE NEEDS FOR SOCIAL
INTERACTION, RECREATION AND OTHER ACTIVITIES AND TO PROVIDE
SERVICES TO FELLOW SENIOR CITIZENS BY MAKING USE OF THEIR
PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE, EXPERTISE AND CONTACTS. THE
GOVERNMENT SHALL SUPPORT INITIATIVES TAKEN BY THEM IN
ADVOCACY, MOBILIZATION OF PUBLIC OPINION, GENERATION OF
RESOURCES AND IMPLEMENTATION OF COMMUNITY WORK. THE DSWD
SHALL PROVIDE TECHNICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANCE IN
ORGANIZING GROUPS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS."

Sec. 8. Section 8 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994,
otherwise known as the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 20010" is hereby amended to read
as follows:

"Sec. 8. The Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA). — There shall be established in all
cities and municipalities an OSCA to be headed by a senior citizen who shall be appointed by
the mayor for a term of three (3) years without reappointment but without prejudice to an
extension if exigency so requires. Said appointee shall be chosen from a list of three (3)
nominees as recommended by a general assembly of senior citizens organizations in the city
or municipality.

NO PERSON SHALL BE NOMINATED TO THE POSITION OF OSCA UNLESS HE
IS A CITIZEN OF THE PHILIPPINES, A RESIDENT OF THE LOCAL
GOVERNMENT UNIT CONCERNED, A REGISTERED VOTER OF THE CITY OR
MUNICPALITY, OF GOOD MORAL CHARACTER, ABLE TO READ AND
WRITE, AND A BONA FIDE MEMBER OF A DULY ACCREDITED SENIOR
CITIZENS GROUP FOR AT LEAST THREE (3) YEARS ON THE DAY OF HIS
NOMINATION,

“The head of the OSCA shall be appointed to serve the interest of senior citizens and shall
not be removed or replaced except for reasons of death permanent disability or ineffective
performance of his duties to the detriment of fellow senior citizens.

“The head of the OSCA shall be entitled to receive an honorarium of an amount at least
equivalent to Salary Grade 10 to be approved by the LGU concerned.

“The head of the OSCA shall be assisted by the City Social Welfare and Development officer
or by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer, in coordination with the Social
Welfare and Development Office.

“The Office of the Mayor shall exercise supervision over the OSCA relative to their plans,
activities and programs for senior citizens. The OSCA shall work together and establish
linkages with accredited NGOs Pos and the barangays in their respective areas.

“The OSCA shall have the following functions:

“(a) To plan, implement and monitor yearly work programs in pursuance of the objectives of
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To draw up a list of available and required services which can be provided by the senior
citizens;

“(c) To maintain and regularly update on a quarterly basis the list of senior citizens and to
issue national individual identification cards, free of charge, which shall be valid anywhere in
the country;

“(d) To serve as a general information and liaison center for senior citizens;

“(c) To monitor compliance of the provisions of this Act particularly the grant of special
discounts and privileges to senior citizens;

“( To report to the mayor, any individual, establishments, business entity, institutions or
agency found violating any provision of this Act; and

“(g) To assist the senior citizens in filing complaints or charges against any individual,
establishments, business entity, institution, or agency refusing to comply with the privileges
under this Act before the Department of Justice (DOD), the Provincial Prosecutor's Office, the
regional or the municipal trial court, the municipal trial court in cities, or the municipal
circuit trial court.”

Sec. 9. Section 9 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994,
otherwise known as the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003" is hereby amended to read
as follows:

" Sec. 9. Penalties. - THE FOLLOWING OFFENSES SHALL BE PROHIBITED AND
PENALIZED UNDER THIS ACT:

A. Any person who refuses to honor the senior citizen card issued by this the government or
violates any provision of this Act shall suffer the following penalties:

“(a) For the first violation, imprisonment of not less than two (2) years but not more than
six (6) years and a fine of not less than Fifty thousand pesos (Php50,000.00) but not
exceeding One hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00);

“(b) For any subsequent violation, imprisonment of not less than two (2) years but not
more than six (6) years and a fine of not less than One Hundred thousand pesos
(Php100,000.00) but not exceeding Two hundred thousand pesos (Php200,000.00); and

“(c) Any person who abuses the privileges granted herein shall be punished with
imprisonment of not less than six (6) months and a fine of not less than Fifty thousand
pesos (Php50,000.00) but not more than One hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00).

“If the offender is a corporation, partnership, organization or any similar entity, the
officials thereof directly involved such as the president, general manager, managing
partner, or such other officer charged with the management of the business affairs shall be
liable therefor.

“If the offender is an alien or a foreigner, he/she shall be deported immediately after
service of sentence.

“Upon filing of an appropriate complaint, and after due notice and hearing, the proper
authorities may also cause the cancellation or revocation of the business permit, permit to

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operate, franchise and other similar privileges granted to any person, establishment or
business entity that fails to abide by the provisions of this Act.”

(B) WHOEVER, HAVING THE CARE AND PROTECTION OF A SENIOR CITIZEN
LEAVES SUCH SENIOR CITIZENS IN ANY PLACE WITH THE INTENTION OF
WHOLLY ABANDONING SUCH SENIOR CITIZEN, WITHOUT THE CONSENT
OF THE SENIOR CITIZEN WHO STILL HAS CONTROL OF HIS/HER MENTAL
FACULTIES, SHALL BE PUNISHED BY THE SAME PENALTY IMPOSED TO A
PUBLIC INSTITUTION SPECIFICALLY AUTHORIZED UNDER THE LAW TO
TAKE CUSTODY OF HIM/HER AND THE PERSON HAVING HIS/HER CARE
AND PROTECTION WILL NOT BE ABLE TO FULLY TAKE CARE OF HIM/HER.

(C) ANY PUV OR PUB OPERATOR WHO FAILS TO COMPLY WITH SECTION
5(F) OF THIS ACT SHALL UPON CONVICTION, BE IMPRISONED FOR TWO (2)
MONTHS TO ONE (1) YEAR OR PAY A FINE OF ONE THOUSAND PESOS
(PHP1,000.00) TO FIVE THOUSAND PESOS (PHP 5,000.00, WITHOUT SUCH
PREJUDICE TO THE IMPOSITION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS SUCH
AS SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF THEIR FRANCHISE;

(@) ANY RAIL TRANSPORT OPERATOR WHO FAILS TO COMPLY WITH
SECTION 5(f) OF THIS ACT SHALL UPON CONVICTION, BE IMPRISONED FOR
FIVE (8) MONTHS TO TWO (2) YEARS OR PAY A FINE OF THIRTY THOUSAND
PESOS (PHP30,000.00 TO FIFTY THOUSAND PESOS (PP 50,000.00); AND

(B) ANY COMMERCIAL AIR OR SEA TRANSPORT PROVIDER WHO FAILS TO
COMPLY WITH SECTION S(F) OF THIS ACT SHALL UPON CONVICTION, BE
IMPRISONED FOR FIVE (5) TO TEN (10) YEARS OR PAY A FINE OF ONE
HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (PHP100,000.00) TO FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND
PESOS (PHP500,000.00).""

Sec. 10. Section 10 of Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994,
otherwise known as the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003” is hereby amended to read
as follows:

"Sec. 10. Monitoring and Coordinating Mechanism. - A National Coordinating and
Monitoring Board shall be established which shall be composed of the following:

“(a) Chairperson — the Secretary of the DSWD or an authorized representative;

“(b) Vice Chairperson — the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local
Government (DILG) or an authorized representative; and

“() Members:
“(1) the Secretary of the DOJ or an authorized representative;

“(2) the Secretary of the DOH or an authorized representative;

“(3) the Secretary of the DTI or an authorized representative; [and]

*(4) CHAIRPERSON OF THE COMMITTEES OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
REPRESENTATIVES WITH JURISDICTION OVER ALL MATTERS
PERTAINING TO THE WELFARE OF SENIOR CITIZENS; AND

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[(4)] () representatives from five (5) NGOs for senior citizens which are duly accredited by
the DSWD and have service primarily for senior citizens Representatives of NGOs shall
serve a period of tree (3) years.

“The Board may call on other government agencies, NGOs and Pos to serve as resource
persons as the need arises. Resource person have no right to vote in the National
Coordinating and Monitoring Board.”

Sec. 11. Implementing Rules and Regulations. — Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of
this Act, the Secretary of the DSWD shall formulate and adopt amendments to the existing
rules and regulations implementing Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No.
9994, to carry out the objectives of this Act, in consultation with the Department of Finance,
the Department of Tourism, the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council
(HUDCC), the DOLE, the DOJ, the DILG, the DTI, the DOH, the DOTC, the NEDA, the
DepED, the TESDA, the CHED, and five (5) NGOs or POs for the senior citizens duly
accredited by the DSWD.

See. 12. Appropriations. ~ The appropriations for the operation and maintenance of the
OSCA and implementation of programs for senior citizens previously appropriated and
approved under the law being amended shall remain in effect. The additional budgetary
requirements needed to implement the provisions of this Act shall be included in their
respective budgets of concerned agencies and thereafter included in the annual General
Appropriation Act for the continued implementation of this Act, Provided, That the increased
monthly social pension for indigent senior citizens shall be added to the regular
appropriations of the DSWD budget in the subsequent GAA . Other funding requirements
may be sourced out from the proceeds of lotto of the Philippine Sweepstakes Office, earnings
of the Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation and earmarked from the proceeds of
Republic Act No. 10351, in accardance with pertinent laws and regulations

See. 13. Repealing Clause. ~ All law, executive orders, rules and regulations or any part
hereof inconsistent herewith are deemed repealed or modified accordingly.

See. 14, Separability Clause. — If any part or provision of this Act shall be declared
unconstittional and invalid, such 18 declaration shall not invalidate other parts thereof which
shall remain in full force and effect.

See. 15. Efectivity, — This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days its following its complete

publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation,
whichever comes earlier.

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