Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez supported calls for sufficient funding of the amended Centenarian’s Act, which now extends a cash gift worth P10,000 to senior citizens, who reach the ages milestones of 80, 85, 90, and 95.
As the country celebrates the Elderly Filipino Week this October, Romualdez said he welcomed the recent approval of amendments to the Centenarian’s Act under Republic Act (RA) 11982.
He said this is a significant step in ensuring that elders, who have dedicated their lives to their families and communities, receive the recognition and care they truly deserve.
“During this celebration of Elderly Week, let’s take the opportunity to align the legislature and executives’ objectives in getting the funding needed to roll out additional benefits for our beloved seniors,” Romualdez said in a press release Oct. 3.
House Committee on Senior Citizens chairman and Senior Citizens Partylist Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes recently proposed meeting the law’s funding requirement.
“I agree that the Department of Budget and Management should consider sourcing the necessary funds, either from the Department of Social Welfare and Development savings or from the Unprogrammed Funds of the 2024 General Appropriations Act,” the House chief said.
He said it is crucial that these particular seniors are not left behind and that the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) are clear and comprehensive in ensuring that all eligible seniors receive their entitlements within the prescribed time frame.
“Our elders deserve nothing less than our utmost care and respect, and we will make sure that their contributions to our nation are duly honored,” said the Leyte 1st District congressman, who filed his certificate of candidacy for reelection Oct. 1. ||
