Espinosa wants more perks for senior citizens

MAYOR Jose Espinosa III wanted to adjust the incentives of senior citizens in Iloilo City.

Espinosa promised that 90-year old and 95-year old seniors will receive P10,000 and P15,000, respectively.

An additional P25,000 will also be given to centenarians.

The mayor made the pronouncement during the city government’s Pag-ulikid program at Barangay Balabago and Tacas in Jaro District last week.

But Office of Senior Citizens Affair chief Elpidio Azuelo Jr. clarified that they are still looking for funds.

“Gin-announce na sang Pag-ulikid but wala pa nakahatag si mayor instructions.  Pangitaan pa na sang pondo and wala pa nakalab-ot sa office ang guidelines parte dira,” said Azuelo.

Azuelo explained that centenarians are given P100,000 by the national government and P50,000 from the local government unit.

“Upon submission of requirements centenarians will receive the incentives. The processing for the requirements is at the DSWD Region 6,” he added.

Under Proclamation No. 470 signed by former President Fidel Ramos on Sept. 26, 1994, the Elderly Filipino Week is observed every first week of October to promote the well-being of the elderly Filipinos.

As part of the celebration, “Walk for Life” was staged by the Iloilo City government and stakeholders last Sept. 30 at a mall in Mandurriao district.

Last October 2, “Search for Golden King and Queen” also culminated in the same mall.

A senior citizens forum will also be held on Westown Hotel Iloilo on October 4-5.

According to Azuelo, their office recorded 56,918 senior citizens in the city as of June 2018.

SOURCE: The Daily Guardian

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