Senatorial candidate Roxas talks with local vendors during his visit at the Pagadian City local market on April 29, 2019. PHOTO by Lea Agonoy/Inquirer Mindanao
PAGADIAN CITY, Philippines — A senior citizen receiving minimal pension from the Social Security System (SSS) here is banking on the promise of senatorial candidate Mar Roxas that he would repeal the Tax Reform For Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law to bring down prices of basic commodities.
Former market vendor Conchita Llaban, 68, was among the consumers and small vendors here who found a reason to hope after Roxas, who visited the local market here on Monday, told vendors and consumers here he would work for the repeal of the TRAIN law if he wins in the 2019 election.
Roxas said the TRAIN law imposed higher excise taxes on fuel and other products, which had become a heavy burden for Filipinos.
Llaban, who paid her SSS contributions as a self-employed individual, has been receiving a measly P2,200 in SSS pension per month after retirement.
She said her monthly pension is not enough to even sustain her maintenance medicines. She said she receives help from her children for her daily needs.
She is hopeful that the incoming senators would find ways to bring down the prices of the essential commodities for the benefit of people receiving minimum pension like her.
Senior citizen Conchita Llaban buys meat at the Pagadian local market.
Jundam Sajiwan, a fisherman, is also hoping that Roxas could push for a low-interest loan for farmers and fishermen.
Sajiwan said many people in their community had fallen prey to loan sharks or money lenders who charge as much as 20 percent interest rate. Hence, the measly income they earn is not enough to pay their debt.
Roxas said he would push for farmers and fishermen to be included in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). /ee