Statement of the Commission on Human Rights supporting bills that advocate for the healthcare needs of the elderly population

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) lauds the filing of various Senate bills which address the need for State protection for the right to health of elderly persons in the country. Particularly, Senate Bill (SB) No. 979, or the “Senior Citizens’ Hospital Act,” and SB No. 2687, or the “Philippine Geriatric Center Act” ensure that health services will remain accessible through the establishment of specific medical services and institutions for their sector.

SB No. 979, filed by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, and SB No. 2687, filed by Senator Raffy Tulfo, aim to ensure that health services are available to all elderly by establishing a tertiary specialty institution dedicated to geriatric care. These bills also emphasize the country’s path to becoming an “aging society” by 2032. As such, these aim to advance health services and train personnel accordingly in preparation for these demographic trends. These bills ensure programs for the disadvantaged, stating a fair allocation of hospital beds for the group. Moreover, SB No. 2687 intends to rename the National Center for Geriatric Health (NCGH) to the Philippine Geriatric Center (PGC), establishing it as a tertiary specialty hospital under the Department of Health (DOH), with upgraded facilities to enhance patient care.

The Commission expresses its full support for these bills as geriatric care deals with the unique health needs of older adults, thus, its efficiency is crucial in improving their quality of life. Ageism, or prejudice based on age, is especially harmful to seniors as it manifests in healthcare through inadequate resources. This can include limited access to treatments, dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers, and a lack of funding for geriatric services. Combating ageism and ensuring comprehensive geriatric care are essential for the well-being and dignity of older persons.

These bills align with Article XIII, Section 11 of the 1987 Constitution which declares that the State shall adopt a comprehensive approach to health development, with priority for the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women, and children. Additionally, the bills follow Republic Act No. 9994 which enforces the DOH, in coordination with appropriate government agencies, to implement integrated healthcare for senior citizens. The bills also run parallel to Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Principles for Older Persons, in promoting the elderly’s right to a decent standard of living and accessible social services.

We take note of the efforts made by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Sen. Raffy Tulfo to file these proactive bills. The Commission recognizes SB No. 979, SB No. 2687, and other related bills being proposed not only as significant steps toward meeting the healthcare needs of older persons but also as a fundamental human rights initiative for all Filipinos.

Through this, we hope for the swift passage of the bills to make way for better healthcare. By supporting this measure, we uphold the dignity of elderly Filipinos, ensuring they receive the adequate care and support they deserve as they age. ###

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