Homes for elderly proposed

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

ALE Partylist Representative Catalina Bagasina has authored House Bill 4751, pushing for the construction of houses for homeless elderly.

As per the bill, funds for the establishment, maintenance and other expenses for the operation of these shelters shall be sourced out from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and other appropriations from the General Appropriations Act. It shall also accept donations and grants from local and international sources as well as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

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"The facility will be a habitat for the elderly and not just a center for the frail and the hapless. The provincial home for the elderly will be focused on satisfying the expectation of the country's senior citizens," Bagasina explained as she stressed that under the Constitution, "the family has the duty to care for its elderly members but the State may also do so through just programs of social security."

The lawmaker said the government already initiated the provision of homecare for the elderly. "To date, there are approximately 10 of this homecare shelters in the country which house recreational facilities and have a wellness program but the cost of these are substantial."

The establishment of residential care facilities shall take care of the neglected, abandoned and homeless members of society.

"Every abandoned and homeless elderly deserves to be afforded the opportunity to live the most normal life possible, and each center will offer them the opportunity of living a decent life where their most basic necessities are met," Bagasina said. (CGC)