Las Piñas Lone District Rep. Mark Anthony Santos has filed a bill seeking to provide a universal social pension for all Filipino senior citizens—regardless of economic status—as part of a broader push to promote dignity, security, and inclusivity in aging.
House Bill No. 1296, titled the “Universal Social Pension Act,” proposes to amend Republic Act No. 9994 (Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010) by removing the indigency requirement that currently limits who may receive the government’s monthly pension.
“Every senior citizen who has worked hard for this country deserves a life of dignity and support,” Santos said. “A universal social pension ensures that no Filipino elder is left behind—whether or not they are classified as indigent.”
Under current law, only indigent seniors—those without regular income or adequate support—are eligible for a ₱1,000 monthly stipend from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The bill further provides that the implementation, distribution, and management of the social pension program shall be transferred from the DSWD to the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), in accordance with Section 11 of Republic Act No. 7742 as amended by Republic Act No. 11350, within a period not exceeding two years from the effectivity of the Act.
According to Santos, senior citizens are more prone to illness, medical needs, and higher living costs, increasing their vulnerability to poverty.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) show that in 2018, total health spending for senior citizens reached ₱171.55 billion—22% of the country’s ₱779.22 billion total health expenditures—with 59% paid out-of-pocket by seniors and their families.
Santos’ proposal seeks to extend the pension to all Filipinos aged 60 and above, with adjustments to the amount based on inflation and prevailing living standards.
He underscored that the measure is rooted in social justice and equity.
“Many seniors may not be considered indigent on paper, yet they continue to struggle financially because of the rising costs of medicine, food, and utilities,” he said. “A universal pension recognizes the lifelong contributions of every Filipino elder.”
Santos also urged the national government to establish a dedicated fund for the program, ensure transparent and efficient disbursement mechanisms, and implement strong safeguards against red tape and corruption.
The lawmaker expressed confidence that the measure will earn broad support in Congress, emphasizing that the country’s rapidly growing senior population urgently needs sustained and comprehensive assistance.
