Senate panels push for P10K cash gift to octogenarians, nonagenarians

The Senate building at the GSIS Complex in Pasay City. (Photo by LYN RILLON / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — Two Senate committees have recommended the approval of a bill seeking to give P10,000 cash assistance to Filipinos who reach the age of 80 and 90 years old.

The committee report submitted by the Senate panels on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development and Finance recommended the passage of Senate Bill No. 1319 in substitution of other bills seeking to expand the Centenarians Act of 2016.

Under Senate Bill No. 1319, a cash gift amounting to P10,000 will be granted to senior citizens who turn 80 and 90 years old.

At present, the said law gives a P100,000 cash gift to centenarians.

“Ultimately, we hope that by expanding the coverage of this law, we are able to honor our elders for their contributions to their communities, and inspire our youth to lead healthier lives,” read the explanatory note of Senate Bill No. 1212, one of the bills seeking to expand the Centenarians Act.

The committee report was signed by 17 senators.

Edited by JPV