The plenary hall of the House of Representatives. (INQUIRER.net file photo)
MANILA, Philippines — A bill seeking to strengthen the national nutrition program for senior citizens has earned the nod of the House of Representatives on the third and final reading.
House Bill No. 8461, which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 7432 or the Senior Citizens Act, was unanimously approved by the lower chamber at the plenary session on Wednesday.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said the bill mandates the National Nutrition Council, the Department of Health, and local government units (LGUs) to prepare the nutrition and wellness program, which will serve as a guide for senior citizens in selecting nutritionally balanced meals to help them combat malnutrition.
“This comprehensive program aims to promote and protect the right of senior citizens to health and instill consciousness on the need for their health and proper nutrition,” Romualdez said in a statement.
Aside from the program, the legislation also mandates LGUs to integrate the initiative into its program for elders.