Brightening horizons for seniors

The senior sector is now accorded with due respect, attention and care. Notably, the young have become more conscious of this, as shown in queues where they always give way to seniors, or in other public places where they readily give up their seats in favor of the elderly.

Many people also do not hesitate to help the elderly in boarding or going down buses or UV Express vans.

As someone in his mid-80s, I am thankful that we seniors are getting extra care and attention. I am glad that even after my retirement from active employment, I have been given the opportunity to assist fellow seniors as an advocate for legislation affecting us.

There are existing laws that provide us benefits and privileges, like Republic Act No. 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act.

There are other pending bills in the House of Representatives, but they are likely to die a natural death as Congress is adjourning.

However, the House did approve House Bill No. 8837, filed by Senior Citizen party-list Rep. Francisco G. Datol Jr.

The bill will create the National Commission of Senior Citizens, a centralized national office “to formulate policies for the promotion and protection of the rights and well-being of senior citizens.”

Once passed into law, seniors will have to deal with only one central office, unlike in the present system.

Also, the Senate committee on social justice, welfare and rural development approved SB 1881, filed by Sen. Tito Sotto, which is HB 8837’s counterpart.

Indeed, there is light at the end of the legislative calendar for senior citizens like me.

MAFEO R. VIBAL

Vice President for External Affairs and Legislative Liaison Officer Philippine Association of Retired Persons (PARP) mafeovibal@gmail.com