Senator Lito Lapid has filed a measure that seeks to establish nursing homes for the neglected and abandoned elderly in every city and municipality.
Lapid filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 1201, or the proposed Homes for Abandoned Seniors Act, as he recognized the contributions of senior citizens to the growth and progress of the country.
The measure, he said, aims to show appreciation to them by providing institutionalized residential care programs and services, such as comfortable living quarters, adequate food and clothing, medical consultation or treatment, among others, for the qualified beneficiaries who are unable to take care of themselves.
"Malaki ang naiambag ng ating mga senior citizens sa pag-unlad ng ating bansa. Kaya naman sa pagsapit nila sa takip-silim ng kanilang buhay, responsibilidad natin bilang isang lipunan na tiyakin ang kanilang mga karapatan at pribilehiyo, lalo na sa tama at maayos tirahan at pangangalaga ay naibibigay sa kanila (Our senior citizens have contributed greatly to the progress of our nation. So it's our responsibility as a society to ensure their rights and privileges, as well as give them proper nursing and housing)," he said.
In his explanatory note, Lapid said Filipinos are known for their genuine respect and care for the elderly and do not just consider taking care of them as an obligation.
But Lapid also noted that cases of abandonment and neglect of the elderly in the Philippines are increasing due to the aging population as well as the economic challenges.
The proposed measure also aims to give senior citizens the opportunity to reconcile with their families and return to their care. Beneficiaries who have recovered from their illness may also opt to leave the nursing home voluntarily.