THE House of Representatives has passed on final reading the measure lowering the optional retirement age of government workers from 60 to 56 years old.
Two hundred and six lawmakers voted in favor of House Bill 8683 on Monday, December 11.
If enacted, government workers will have the option to terminate their employment even before they reach 60 years old, without substantial loss to their monthly income.
The bill amends Section 13-A of Republic Act 8291, or the “Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Act of 1997,” by providing that government workers who have reached the age of 56 years may file for retirement and be entitled to old-age pension for life from the GSIS.
Authors of the bill are Representatives Antonio Tinio, France Castro, Rodel Batocabe, Alfredo Garbin Jr., and Maria Carmen Zamora, among others. (Keith A. Calayag/SunStar Philippines)