HOUSE Deputy Majority Leader Erwin T. Tulfo and his colleagues in the ACT-CIS partylist and two other solons filed a bill that would provide P1,000 monthly maintenance medication for senior citizens in the country.
The House Bill No. 9569, “Providing Monthly Maintenance Medication Support Act for Senior Citizens” was filed by Rep. Erwin Tulfo, and his colleagues from the ACT-CIS partylist, Reps. Jocelyn Tulfo and Edvic Yap and two other solons Benguet Rep. Eric Yap and Quezon city 2nd District Rep. Ralph Tulfo.
The lawmakers said, the bill is a legislative proposal that responds to a critical issue facing our elderly population, particularly those dealing with chronic or long-term medical conditions.
“It acknowledges the fundamental importance of preserving and enhancing the health and well-being of senior citizens in our society,” Tulfo said.
Tulfo explained that one of the primary challenges faced by senior citizens, especially those with ongoing medical needs, is the financial strain associated with obtaining essential medications. Chronic illnesses often require regular and costly treatments, imposing a substantial burden on seniors and their families.
“This bill recognizes this burden and aims to alleviate it by providing financial assistance,” Tulfo noted.
“By offering a monthly stipend of Php 1,000.00 for maintenance medications, this bill is designed to improve the quality of life of our senior citizens and ease the financial constraints they encounter, making it more feasible for them to access the medications they require. It acknowledges that managing chronic diseases should not be compromised due to economic limitations,” the bill added.
It also said, “the bill is a manifestation of our society’s commitment to honoring and caring for our senior citizens who have contributed to our nation’s growth and development over the years. It recognizes their invaluable role and endeavors to ensure that they can enjoy their senior years with dignity and good health.”
Around 9.2 million senior citizens or Filipino aged 60 and above were recorded in the latest Philippines Statistics Authority survey in 2020.
