Question & AnswerQ&A (MARINA MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR 76-A)
The purpose is to enforce and implement the directive under Rule V, Paragraph A, Sub-section A.1 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of R.A. 7432 for maximizing the contribution of senior citizens, granting benefits, and other special purposes, particularly relating to senior citizens' discounts on public water transportation services.
The provisions shall be construed liberally in favor of the beneficiaries, i.e., senior citizens, to further the policy and objectives of R.A. 7432.
Senior citizens are any resident citizens of the Philippines who are at least sixty (60) years old, including those retired from government or private sectors, with an income not exceeding sixty thousand pesos (P60,000) per annum, subject to review every three years by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB).
The Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA), established in the Office of the Mayor and headed by a councilor designated by the Sangguniang Bayan/Panglungsod in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Municipality federation of Senior Citizens.
Senior citizens are entitled to a discount of not less than twenty percent (20%) of the fare charged or authorized, regardless of the class of accommodation.
Yes, senior citizens are entitled to a discount of not less than twenty percent (20%) of the tagged price on meals or items purchased from onboard restaurants, limited to the quantity to be consumed by the senior citizen per meal.
Proof of age through the Official Identification Card issued by OSCA or other means showing the person is at least 60 years old. Proof of annual income not exceeding P60,000 must also be presented if applicable.
Ticketing offices must grant passage reservations to senior citizens who are beneficiaries. The senior citizen must purchase the ticket at a discounted price on or before the day of departure, and for same-day purchase, at least two (2) hours before departure.
Violations are punishable by a fine of not less than P1,000. Repeated violations may lead to suspension, revocation, or cancellation of the operator's Certificate of Public Convenience or authority to operate.
Proceedings are summary, allowing only complaint-affidavit and answer pleadings, which must be verified. MARINA may deny complaints if insufficient, and upon finding probable cause, it issues an Order for the respondent to file an answer. Failure to answer results in decision based on records, although hearings may be held if necessary.