Senator Bam Aquino- Photo courtesy of Bam Aquino/Facebook.
Senator Bam Aquino is seeking to expand the government’s social pension program by granting Php 1,000 monthly assistance to more senior citizens who receive little or no pension.
Under Senate Bill No. 269, senior citizens who do not receive a social pension or whose existing pension does not exceed Php 3,000 a month would qualify for the proposed benefit.
“As we grow older, it becomes more difficult to generate income. Many of our lolos and lolas face barriers to staying employed after the age of 60 due to physical limitations, age-based discrimination, or the lack of opportunities tailored to their skills,” he said.
He said many senior citizens faced difficulties earning income after reaching 60 because of physical limitations, age discrimination and limited job opportunities suited to their skills.
Aquino added that a regular pension could also help ease pressure on families that already shoulder expenses for food, education, health care and other household needs.
He said the proposal would also recognize the contribution of senior citizens to the country by providing them greater financial security in old age.
“Our senior citizens have broadly contributed to the development of our nation. It is time for us to return their sacrifices by ensuring that they are cared for in their old age,” the senator noted.
Senate Bill No. 269 is among Aquino’s 10 proposed measures under his “Panukalang Batas para sa Abot-Kayang Pamumuhay,” which seek to address rising living costs, health expenses, low wages and gaps in government support.
Aquino also filed Senate Bill No. 2386, or the proposed National Disability Support Act, which would provide qualified persons with disabilities a Php 2,000 monthly allowance to help cover disability-related and other essential expenses.