MANILA, (PIA) — Senator Win Gatchalian is calling for the establishment of local government-managed elderly homes in response to a rising number of abandoned senior citizens and increasing reports of elder abuse in the country.
During a recent Senate session discussing the proposed 2025 budget for the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), Gatchalian urged the commission to explore the feasibility of creating homes for the elderly managed by local government units (LGUs).
“We have noticed the rising instances of abandoned elderlies,” he said, emphasizing the troubling sight of seniors left to fend for themselves on the streets.
In his home city of Valenzuela, local officials have already taken action by establishing Bahay Kanlungan, a dedicated home for the elderly.
“Dumadami ang abandoned senior citizens at nakakalungkot na nakikita natin sila sa kalsada,” Gatchalian remarked.
The senator has introduced Senate Bill 950, known as the Homes for Abandoned Seniors Act, which aims to create nursing homes for the elderly to be operated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in coordination with local governments.
The proposed legislation would require LGUs to construct these facilities to address the growing need for elder care.
In addition to promoting elderly homes, Gatchalian is advocating for Senate Bill 816, which seeks to criminalize abuse against senior citizens. This proposal comes in light of alarming reports of seniors being abused, neglected, and exploited.
“I urge the commission to champion and help push the bill. Kailangan nating tulungan ang ating mga kababayan na matatanda na napapabayaan ng kanilang mga pamilya,” he said.
Research indicates that many elderly individuals who experience abuse choose to remain silent, often suffering in isolation.
A study by the University of the Philippines-National College of Public Administration and Governance revealed that children of seniors are the most common perpetrators of abuse, followed by spouses and grandchildren.
Gatchalian also co-authored a measure that expands the coverage of the Centenarian Act, allowing for cash gifts to be distributed earlier to citizens aged 80, 90, and 100.
His efforts reflect a commitment to improving the welfare of senior citizens in the Philippines and ensuring that their rights and needs are prioritized. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
