Solon seeks travel tax exemption for elderly, PWDs

BACOLOD City Representative Greg Gasataya filed House Bill No. 7964 seeking to exempt senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) from travel tax.

Gasataya said on Tuesday, August 21, he filed the bill in July and it will be referred to the House Committee.

He said this bill seeks to reduce the financial burden of traveling on senior citizens and PWDs by exempting them from travel tax.

Gasataya noted the current amount of travel tax in the country varies, as provided by Presidential Decree 1183.

For economy class, full travel tax amounts to P1,620; standard reduced travel tax at P810; and privileged reduced tax for overseas Filipino worker (OFWs) dependents is P300.

For the first class, full rate amounts to P2,700; standard reduced rate is P1,350; for privileged reduced tax for OFW dependents at P400.

“As many senior citizens rely solely on pension and PWDs on their families for income, it is imperative that the State provides them with as many privileges as possible,” Gasataya said.

He said that those who have less in life should have more in law.

“While there are existing benefits for senior citizens and PWDs provided by law, the State can further develop policies that would induce a more satisfactory life for them,” he said.

He added senior citizens and PWDs are the most likely to require special medical intervention.

“Despite our country's significant advances in the field of medical technology, it cannot be denied that there are still procedures for certain illnesses that are exclusive or are more affordable in countries abroad. Thus, overseas travel must be made accessible to senior citizens and PWDs,” Gasataya disclosed.

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