Summary
Highlights
Republic Act 7432, also known as the Senior Citizens Act, aims to maximize the contribution of senior citizens to nation-building and grant them benefits and special privileges. A senior citizen is defined as a Filipino resident aged 60 years or older. This act implements constitutional mandates regarding the welfare of the elderly.
The Department of Health ensures a national health program for PWDs, focusing on prevention, early diagnosis, and rehabilitation. Auxiliary social services, including physical restoration, social enhancement, and job search services, are provided. Telecommunication services must offer sign language interpretation or subtitles for news and significant events to ensure accessibility.
The Accessibility Law (BP 334) ensures a barrier-free environment in public and private establishments. PWDs also retain their political and civil rights, including the right to vote with assistance if needed.
The Magna Carta for Persons with Disability (Republic Act 7277) addresses disability as a social issue in the Philippines, ensuring equality and rights for disabled persons. The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) is the lead agency coordinating programs and services for PWDs.
RA 7277 emphasizes the integration of PWDs into mainstream society, recognizing their potential and ensuring their right to participate. It mandates rehabilitation efforts for various disabilities and encourages the private sector's role in promoting the welfare of PWDs through partnerships and investments.
Each city and municipality must establish an OSCA, headed by a councilor, to assist senior citizens with complaints, plan and monitor work programs, list available services, maintain an updated list of senior citizens, issue ID cards, and act as a liaison and information center.
Violations of RA 7432 are punishable by imprisonment not exceeding one month or a fine not exceeding PHP 1,000, or both. Various government departments are responsible for issuing implementing rules and regulations. The act became effective on April 22, 2010.
RA 7277 prohibits discrimination against qualified disabled persons in employment, including recruitment, promotion, compensation, and training. Specific discriminatory acts, such as limiting opportunities or providing less compensation, are outlined. Employment entrance examinations must be consistent with business necessity and confidentiality.
PWDs are guaranteed equal opportunities in employment, with the same terms and conditions as able-bodied persons. The state also provides vocational rehabilitation and, if needed, sheltered employment. PWDs also have the right to quality education and cannot be denied admission based on their disability.
Senior citizens are entitled to a 20% discount on transportation, hotels, restaurants, and medicines. They also receive discounts on admission fees for cultural and leisure activities. The act provides assistance to those caring for senior citizens, including tax benefits, and tax holidays and priority road maintenance for homes and retirement villages for seniors.
To get a Senior Citizen's ID, applicants must be at least 60 years old, a Filipino citizen, and a Philippine resident for at least six months. Requirements include a birth certificate, four 1x1 ID photographs, and a photocopy of any valid identification document. The application process involves applying at the local OSCA and submitting the necessary forms and documents.
Discrimination based on disability is prohibited in public accommodations like hotels, stores, banks, and educational institutions. Transportation facilities are also forbidden from charging higher fares or refusing to carry orthopedic devices and personal effects due to a person's disability.
The government considers the special housing needs of PWDs in national shelter programs. Local government units are encouraged to establish PWD organizations and collaborate on livelihood opportunities. Donations to PWD-related organizations are tax-exempt and provide deductions from the donor's gross income.
The Secretary of Justice is responsible for investigating violations of RA 7277 and initiating legal action. Penalties for violations include fines ranging from PHP 50,000 to PHP 200,000 and imprisonment from six months to six years, or both. Abuse of privileges by PWDs also carries penalties.