A PARTY-LIST lawmaker has filed a bill seeking to strengthen and broaden government programs for senior citizens nationwide.
Senior Citizens Party-list Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes and Laguna Rep. Loreto Amante filed House Bill 10739 that aims to enhance the rights, privileges, and protections to Filipinos aged 60 and above.
Ordanes said if enacted, the measure will mean better health service, additional social protection benefits and more support for senior citizens as they become an integral part of their communities.
Ordanes cited Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data showing that senior citizens comprised 8.5 percent of the country’s population.
Ordanes also filed a separate proposal for the creation of programs and benefits for senior overseas Filipino workers who are coming home for good.
Under his House Bill No. 10705, Ordanes eyes social protection for OFWs that are 60-year old and above as provided for by the Philippine Development Plan 2023 – 2028.
He stressed that there is a need for the immediate creation of a comprehensive program for returning senior OFWs that will include the grant of health and economic assistance.
Ordanes said such benefits would be a form of recognition to the senior OFWs’ contribution to the national economy after working for several years abroad.
