Proposed Ordinance to Expand Senior Citizen Incentives Approved by SP on First Reading

The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod City has approved on first reading a proposed ordinance that seeks to expand the city’s ladderized cash incentive program for senior citizens, lowering the starting age for eligibility from 80 to 75 years old and increase its budget to P10M annually.

Authored by Councilor Atty. Caesar Z. Distrito and co-authored by Councilor Celia Matea R. Flor, the proposed ordinance aims to amend City Ordinance No. 910, Series of 2019, known as the “Ladderized Cash Incentive Centenarian Award Ordinance of Bacolod City.”

“This amendment reflects our commitment to recognize and support our senior citizens earlier in their twilight years, especially given the increasing challenges they face,” said Councilor Distrito. “It’s about inclusivity and dignity.”

Key Amendments:
• The new incentive structure will start at age 75, with eligible seniors receiving ₱10,000 at each milestone:
• ₱10,000 at ages 75–80
• ₱10,000 at ages 81–90
• ₱10,000 at ages 91–99
• The remaining incentive upon reaching 100 years old, provided all previous incentives were granted.
• In cases where a qualified beneficiary passes away before receiving the incentive, the nearest family member or guardian may claim it, subject to proper verification in line with City Ordinance No. 670, Series of 2014.
• The annual city budget allocation for the program will be increased from ₱5 million to ₱10 million to ensure wider coverage and sustainability.

“This is a way to express our gratitude to our elders who helped shape the community we enjoy today,” added Councilor Flor. “Recognizing them while they are still with us is a moral obligation.”* (PR)