(MANILA BULLETIN)

A P1,000 monthly maintenance aid for senior citizens will get institutionalized if and when this measure from ACT-CIS Party-list becomes a law. 

House Deputy Majority Leader ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo led the filing of House Bill (HB) No. 9569,  dubbed “Providing Monthly Maintenance Medication Support Act for Senior Citizens”. 

The bill serves as a response to the critical issue facing then local elderly population, particularly those dealing with chronic or long-term medical conditions. 

“By offering a monthly stipend of P1,000.00 for maintenance medications, this bill is designed to improve the quality of life of our senior citizens and ease the financial constraints they encounter, making it more feasible for them to access the medications they require. It acknowledges that managing chronic diseases should not be compromised due to economic limitations,” the bill explained. 

Tulfo said HB No.9569 "acknowledges the fundamental importance of preserving and enhancing the health and well-being of senior citizens in our society". 

He noted that one of the primary challenges faced by senior citizens, especially those with ongoing medical needs, is the financial strain associated with obtaining essential medications. 

Chronic illnesses often require regular and costly treatments, imposing a substantial burden on seniors and their families. 

“This bill recognizes this burden and aims to alleviate it by providing financial assistance,” Tulfo noted. 

"The bill is a manifestation of our society's commitment to honoring and caring for our senior citizens who have contributed to our nation's growth and development ovethe years. It recognizes their invaluable role and endeavors to ensure that they can enjoy their senior years with dignity and good health," he added. 

Around 9.2 million senior citizens or Filipinos aged 60 and above were recorded in the latest Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) survey in 2020. 

Co-authoring the measure were ACT-CIS Party-list Reps. Jocelyn Tulfo and Edvic Yap and two district solons Benguet lone district Rep. Eric Yap and Quezon City 2nd district Rep. Ralph Tulfo.