BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur – To pay tribute to elderly persons for their contributions to the community and in nation building, the municipal government here has feted the senior citizens with a program at the municipal gymnasium to mark the start of the Senior Citizens’ week celebration last Oct. 1.
In his inspirational messaged, Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa Jr. reiterated the salient provisions of Republic Act 9994, better known as the “Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010,” that provides more benefits and privileges to elderlies.
Under this law older persons are entitled to 20% discount on the purchase of certain goods and services. Special 5% discount on prime commodities and basic necessities, and 5% utility discount on electric and water consumption.
On top of these, eligible indigent senior citizens are also entitled to a monthly social pension of P500 under the government social pension program implemented by the DSWD.
It can be recalled that Presidential Proclamation No. 470 has declared every first week of October each year as “Elderly Filipino Week.”
This year’s theme is “Nakakatanda ay Yaman, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bayan, Pangalagaan Kanilang Kapakanan.”
Some 700 senior citizens from the municipality’s 28 barangays turned up in said activity with Vice Mayor Celso Matias and some members of the Sangguniang Bayan.
To make the program more entertaining and lively, different games and contests were given to the participants by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) led by Gloria Magtortol.
