Monday, June 23, 2008 2 PB members back discount hike proposal
AT least two legislators in Cebu Province voiced support for the bill filed by Rep. Antonio Cuenco (Cebu, south district) seeking to increase discount privileges for senior citizens by 10 percent.
Section 4 of Republic Act 9257, or known as the Expanded Senior Citizen Act, provides 20 percent discount privileges for senior citizens.
If Cuenco’s bill is approved, discount privileges for senior citizens will now be 30 percent, which the elderly could use for the purchase of medicines and use it in establishments, services, utilities and facilities.
Welcome
“With the spiraling prices of almost everything these days, the measures of (Congressman) Cuenco is a most welcome legislative initiative that could certainly help alleviate the plight of the aged,” Board Members Victoria Carominas and Juan Bolo wrote in their joint resolution.
The board members observed that the 20 percent discount has not been fully enjoyed by senior citizens due to the imposition of the 12 percent Expanded Value Added Tax (E-VAT) by the government on goods and services.
Cuenco’s proposed bill also aimed at extending a five percent discount to senior citizens every time they buy gasoline, kerosene, and other petroleum products that will not exceed to P1,000. (GMD)
