QC solon pushes for monetary support for PPAs of elderly and PWDs

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By Sammy F. Martin [(PNA), SCS/SFM/EDS]

MANILA. Jan. 4 (PNA) -- A final push in a measure mandating local government units (LGUs) to allocate one percent of their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) for programs, projects and activities (PPAs) of senior citizens is being done in the House of Representatives.

House Bill No. 6250 authored by Quezon City Rep. Alfredo D. Vargas III also seeks to allocate one percent of LGUs’ IRA for PPAs of persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Vargas said it is the policy of the State to provide senior citizens and PWDs with programs, projects and activities that will effectively address their needs.

“The State recognizes the roles of senior citizens and persons with disabilities in nation-building and community development,” Vargas said.

The bill defines senior citizens or elderly as any resident of the Philippines who are at least 60 years old.

On the other hand, persons with disabilities refer to those suffering from restriction or different abilities, as a result of a mental, physical or sensory impairment, to perform an activity in the manner or within the range considered for a normal human being.

The Quezon City lawmaker said that in his consultation with the senior citizens sector in his district, one of the issues that emerged was the inadequate funding for PPAs that will benefit the sector.

“These projects, programs and activities include medical and dental services, fitness and wellness, social services, livelihood and employment, legal assistance, and recreation,” Vargas elaborated.

Vargas said through the one percent allocation of the IRA, the problem of inadequate funding would be addressed.

“The State will be able to provide sufficient monetary support for the PPAs that shall address the necessities of senior citizens and PWDs,” he said.

Vargas, vice chair of the House Committees on Health and on Social Services, said approximately 6.263 million senior citizens and 1.442 million PWDs are expected to benefit from this proposed legislation.

The bill is still with the House Committee on Local Government chaired by South Cotabato Rep. Pedro B. Acharon Jr.