Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9994)
Republic Act No. 9994 is officially entitled as the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010."
A senior citizen under RA 9994 is any resident citizen of the Philippines who is at least sixty (60) years old.
The key objectives include recognizing the rights of senior citizens to take their proper place in society, supporting their well-being and full participation, motivating them to contribute to nation-building, encouraging family and community care, providing comprehensive health care and rehabilitation, and partnering with the private sector to improve their welfare.
Senior citizens are entitled to a 20% discount and VAT exemption on medicines, medical and dental services, public transportation fares, hotel and restaurant services, admission fees to cultural and recreational venues, and funeral and burial services. They also receive a minimum 5% discount on monthly water and electricity bills, subject to certain conditions.
Senior citizens who desire to work or be re-employed are provided information and matching employment services. Private entities employing senior citizens for at least six months receive an additional 15% deduction from gross income on salaries and wages paid to them, provided the senior citizen's annual income does not exceed the poverty threshold.
Government assistance includes employment support, access to education and vocational training, comprehensive health programs with specialized geriatric care, social services including residential care, special housing needs, access to public transport, and social pensions for indigent senior citizens.
The OSCA is established in all cities and municipalities to plan, implement, and monitor programs for senior citizens, maintain updated lists, issue identification cards, serve as an information center, monitor compliance with the law, report violations, and assist senior citizens in filing complaints.
Violations result in imprisonment of not less than two years but not more than six years, fines ranging from Fifty thousand to Two hundred thousand pesos depending on the number of violations, and possible revocation of business permits. Abuse of privileges also results in imprisonment and fines. Officers of offending corporations are liable, and foreign offenders are subject to deportation after serving sentences.
Indigent senior citizens are entitled to free vaccination against influenza and pneumococcal disease, free medical and dental services in government facilities, a monthly social pension of Five hundred pesos, and mandatory coverage under PhilHealth.
The law mandates regular reviews and upgrades of retirement benefits to maintain responsiveness and sustainability, and includes provisions for budget appropriations by local government units and national agencies for the operations and programs benefiting senior citizens.