Bill Proposes Universal Pension for Filipino Seniors

Photo courtesy of PhilStar

A new legislative proposal aims to provide all senior Filipino citizens a universal social pension, regardless of their financial status. House Bill 1296, introduced by Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos, seeks to expand the current pension scheme by amending Republic Act 9994. This move would eliminate the indigency requirement, thereby allowing every senior citizen to receive government support.

Currently, only indigent seniors, those without regular income, are eligible for a monthly stipend of P1,000 from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Rep. Santos' proposal would extend this benefit to all Filipinos aged 60 and above, estimated to be 11 million as of 2023. The bill also suggests adjustments to the pension amount based on inflation and living standards.

In 2018, senior citizens accounted for P171.55 billion of total health expenditures in the Philippines, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. Of this, 59% was paid out-of-pocket by seniors and their families, highlighting the financial strain on elderly Filipinos. Santos argues that a universal pension could help alleviate these expenses and improve the quality of life for seniors.

The proposed bill has sparked discussions on the financial implications and feasibility of such a program. Experts have raised concerns about sourcing funds, with Santos advocating for a dedicated government fund to ensure sustainability. The policy could potentially impact government spending but may provide needed support amid rising healthcare costs for the elderly.

If passed, this legislation could significantly alter the welfare system for Filipino seniors, providing equitable support across income levels. The House will review the bill's impact and funding strategies in upcoming sessions, reported PhilStar.

Key Takeaways

• House Bill 1296 proposes a universal pension for all Filipino seniors.
• The bill aims to amend current laws to include wealthy and poor seniors.
• The proposal would address senior healthcare costs and improve living standards.

Click here for more Philippine stories

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-11-26