DEC 7, 2015

NR # 4041B

Monetary support for PPAs of the elderly & PWDs sought

A measure mandating local government units (LGUs) to allocate one percent of their
Internal Revenue Allocation (IRA) for programs, projects and activities (PPAs) of senior citizens
was filed in the House of Representatives.
House Bill 6250 authored by Rep. Alfredo D. Vargas III (5th District, Quezon City) also
seeks to allocate one percent of LGUs IRA for PPAs for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Vargas said it is the policy of the State to provide senior citizens and PWDs with
programs, projects and activities that will effectively address their needs.
The State recognizes the roles of senior citizens and persons with disabilities in nationbuilding and community development, Vargas said.
The bill defines senior citizens or elderly as any resident of the Philippines who are at least
60 years old.
On the other hand, persons with disabilities refer to those suffering from restriction or
different abilities, as a result of a mental, physical or sensory impairment, to perform an activity
in the manner or within the range considered for a normal human being.
The Quezon City solon said in his consultation with the senior citizens sector in his
district, one of the issues that emerged was the inadequate funding for PPAs that will benefit the
sector.
These projects, programs and activities include medical and dental services, fitness and
wellness, social services, livelihood and employment, legal assistance, and recreation, Vargas
elaborated.
Vargas said through the one percent allocation of the IRA, the problem of inadequate
funding would be addressed.
The State will be able to provide sufficient monetary support for the PPAs that shall
address the necessities of senior citizens and PWDs, he said.
Vargas, vice chair of the House Committees on Health and on Social Services, said
approximately 6.263 million senior citizens and 1.442 million PWDs are expected to benefit from
this proposed legislation.
The bill has been referred to the Committee on Local Government chaired by Rep. Pedro
B. Acharon Jr. (1st District, South Cotabato). (30) mvip