Question & AnswerQ&A (DSWD Resolution SERIES OF 2010)
The official title is the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 9994, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.
A senior citizen is any Filipino citizen who is a resident of the Philippines and is sixty (60) years old or above. Dual citizens may also qualify provided they prove Filipino citizenship and have at least six (6) months residency in the country.
Senior citizens are entitled to a 20% discount and VAT exemption on purchase of medicines (both generic and branded), essential medical supplies and equipment, medical and dental services, diagnostic and laboratory tests, and professional fees of attending physicians and licensed health workers providing home health care services.
A senior citizen or his/her duly authorized representative must present a valid and original Senior Citizen's Identification Card issued by the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) of their place of residence, which is honored nationwide.
No. The privileges must be personally availed by the senior citizen. Proxies or authorized representatives who are not senior citizens will not be honored for dine-in services.
Yes. Senior citizens considered to be minimum wage earners are entitled to exemption from payment of individual income tax under Republic Act No. 9504.
First violation: a fine of PHP 50,000 to PHP 100,000 and imprisonment of 2 to 6 years. Subsequent violations: a fine of PHP 100,000 to PHP 200,000 and imprisonment of 2 to 6 years. Corporations' officers involved may also be held liable. Foreign offenders may be deported after serving sentence.
OSCA plans, develops, implements, monitors programs for senior citizens; issues IDs and purchase booklets; serves as liaison; monitors compliance; assists in filing complaints; facilitates complaints resolutions; and establishes linkages with NGOs and POs.
They are entitled to a minimum five percent (5%) discount on monthly utilization of water and electricity, provided the meter is registered in the name of the senior citizen, and monthly consumption limits are followed.
Indigent senior citizens are entitled to a monthly social pension of PHP 500.00, free vaccinations against influenza and pneumococcal disease, mandatory PhilHealth coverage paid by local government units, and social safety nets including food, medicines, and financial assistance during disasters.