MARAWI CITY (PIA)--A measure seeking to establish an office recognizing the rights of senior citizens was introduced on first reading in the Bangsamoro Parliament on Monday, March 20.

Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr. filed BTA Bill No. 121, also known as the Bangsamoro Commission for Senior Citizens Act of 2022, which seeks to create an office responsible for ensuring the rights and privileges of senior citizens are respected and fully implemented across all government laws, policies, and programs.

"This bill seeks to establish a mechanism for the beloved senior citizens since all of us will turn 60 years old and become one," said Sinolinding.

The proposed bill takes into account that the elderly are an important part of the region and Philippine society. It also aims to give them full support for their overall well-being and full participation in society.

Sinolinding says that the bill will motivate and encourage senior citizens to help build the country. It will also encourage their families and the communities where they live to continue the important Filipino tradition of caring for senior citizens. It will also give disabled senior citizens a comprehensive health care and rehabilitation system and recognize the important role of the private sector in improving the welfare of senior citizens.

The Commission shall, among other things: formulate and implement policies for the promotion and protection of the rights and well-being of senior citizens; conduct information, education, and communication campaigns to raise awareness on the rights of senior citizens; and review and recommend appropriate actions and policies to the BTA and Bangsamoro Government.

Under the proposed law, the commission's main programs would be social pensions, benefits for people over 100, and social safety nets.

Under the social pension program, low-income seniors will get a monthly stipend of at least P1,000 to help pay for basic living costs and health care.

Seniors who reach the age of 100 will also get Centenarian benefits, such as a letter of congratulations from the President and a P100,000 centenarian gift in honor of their long lives. The deceased centenarian's closest living relative will accept the posthumous plaque of recognition that the DSWD will present.

They will also receive social security assistance intended to cushion the effects of economic shocks, disasters, and calamities. This includes food, medicine, and financial assistance for home repairs. (BTA/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)