CHR lauds Senate bills seeking to protect elderlies

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The filing of bills that seek to protect the health and rights of elderlies shows that the country is on its way to “becoming an aging society by 2032,” according to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the CHR welcomed the filing of Senate bills (SB), particularly SB 979, or the Senior Citizens Hospital Act and SB 2687, or the Philippine Geriatric Center Act, which were lodged by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on August 5, 2022, and Senator Raffy Tulfo last May 21, respectively.

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“[The bills] aim to ensure that health services are available to all elderly by establishing a tertiary specialty institution dedicated to geriatric care. These bills also emphasize the country’s path to becoming an “aging society” by 2032,” the CHR said.

“Ageism, or prejudice based on age, is especially harmful to seniors as it manifests in healthcare through inadequate resources. This can include limited access to treatments, dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers, and a lack of funding for geriatric services. Combating ageism and ensuring comprehensive geriatric care are essential for the well-being and dignity of older persons,” it added.

The CHR also said the measures align with Article 8 of the 1987 Constitution, declaring that the State “shall adopt a comprehensive approach to health development, with priority for the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women, and children.”

“Additionally, the bills follow Republic Act No. 9994, which enforces the DOH, in coordination with appropriate government agencies, to implement integrated healthcare for senior citizens,” it further said.

“The bills also run parallel to Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Principles for Older Persons, in promoting the elderly’s right to a decent standard of living and accessible social services,” it added.

In line with this, the CHR expressed hope for the swift passage of the bills.

“By supporting this measure, we uphold the dignity of elderly Filipinos, ensuring they receive the adequate care and support they deserve as they age,” it said.