DEC.

2, 2011 DATE

NR # 2605
REF. NO.

Solon lauds VP Binay for senior citizens centers nationwide

The estimated 7 million senior citizens all over the country will soon enjoy a functional center within their neighborhoods courtesy of Vice President Jejomar Binay. This prompted Rep. David Kho (Party-list, Senior Citizen) to file House Resolution 1802 commending the Vice President for his concern on the plight of the elderly. Kho said the 300 senior citizens centers to be constructed in many parts of the country will be sponsored by Vice President Binay through his 2011 Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). Kho said the Vice-President has allocated a part of his PDAF for the construction of 300 senior citizen centers which will cost P500,000 each. Vice President Binay must be commended for his gallant effort to help the plight of the senior citizens, Kho said. The PDAF allocated to Binay came from the unused portion of President Aquinos PDAF during his term as senator. The Office of the Vice President will direct the Senior Citizens Associations to handle the construction of the centers to ensure the transparency and completion of the projects, Kho said. Kho said each Senior Citizen Center will have recreational, educational, health and social programs and facilities designed for the full enjoyment and benefit of the elderly. On February 14, 1995, Republic Act 7876, also known as the Senior Citizens Center Act of the Philippines, was enacted into law to pave the way for a health development program for the elderly. Under RA 7876, one is considered a Senior citizens or elderly in the Philippines upon reaching the age of 60. (30) jsc