The House of Representatives’ special committee on Senior Citizens approved a substitute bill on Tuesday that seeks to provide social pension to all senior citizens, expanding benefits beyond indigent seniors covered under Republic Act 7432.
Marikina City 2nd District Representative Miro Quimbo, whose House Bill 1421 was among those consolidated into the substitute, highlighted the importance of supporting the elderly.
“Our grandfathers and grandmothers worked all their life, took care of the family, and contributed to the community. But in old age, they are often put in a vulnerable spot when it comes to daily expenses,” Quimbo said.
“Thus, we are extending this universal benefit to honor all our senior citizens for their societal contributions and help them meet their needs with dignity and peace of mind,” he added.
The substitute bill will now be sent to the House plenary for deliberation by all members.