By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro signed on Wednesday, July 31, an ordinance doubling the birthday cash gift for senior citizens.
Ordinance No. 40, series of 2024, increases the benefit from P1,000 to P2,000, effective on August 1.
“Ang simpleng handog na ito ay hindi lamang isang financial benefit, ito ay isang pagkilala at pagpapahalaga sa inyong naging bahagi sa paghubog ng ating lungsod,” Teodoro said in a video message late Wednesday.
The city has around 96,000 elderly citizens, according to the latest data of its Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA).
Teodoro said the measure will benefit not only senior citizens but also their loved ones.
Vice Mayor Marion Andres, a senior citizen himself, thanked Teodoro for signing the ordinance.
“The gesture of granting a birthday cash gift is a tangible expression of the city’s gratitude and appreciation for the elderly, fostering a sense of belonging and respect within the community,” the measure stated.
It also noted that the increasing cost of living necessitates additional financial support for senior citizens, many of whom rely on fixed incomes that may not sufficiently cover their needs.
“Increasing this amount by an additional P1,000, for a total of P2,000, will provide greater financial assistance to senior citizens, helping to address their unique needs and improve their quality of life, thereby promoting their well-being and dignity,” it said.
In 2016, the local government passed Ordinance No. 60 which grants a P1,000 birthday cash gift to senior citizens.