The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has issued an advisory expressing its strong support for Senate Bill No. 2929, or the proposed Universal Social Pension Act, which seeks to institutionalize monthly financial assistance for all older persons in the Philippines.
Under the measure, indigent senior citizens will receive a monthly stipend of ₱1,000, while non-indigents will receive ₱500. This initiative not only addresses the financial needs of Filipino senior citizens but also affirms their economic, social, and cultural rights. By ensuring that their needs are regularly met, the bill promotes greater social inclusion and restores dignity—particularly for those who continue to struggle in their daily lives despite existing government efforts.
As the country’s national human rights institution, the CHR underscores that this measure must be viewed within the broader obligation of the State to protect and promote the rights of older persons, as guaranteed under the 1987 Constitution. Article XV, Section 4 obliges the State to care for the elderly through just and appropriate programs of social security, while Article XIII, Section 11 affirms that their needs must be prioritized among other vulnerable and marginalized sectors.
The Philippines, as a State Party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, is also bound to recognize the right of every person to social security and an adequate standard of living. This commitment is consistent with the UN Principles for Older Persons, which emphasize independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment, and dignity.
Furthermore, under the Political Declaration and Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, governments are urged to ensure that older persons have equal access to income security. In this regard, the Commission recommends that, apart from the Universal Social Pension, complementary policies and services be pursued—particularly in healthcare, livelihood support, and community-based care.
While supporting the proposed measure, the CHR recommends that pension amounts be periodically reviewed and adjusted to remain responsive to inflation and the rising cost of living. The Commission also raises concern over the ladderized stipend structure, which increases the amount for non-indigent older persons after five years while keeping the indigent rate fixed. Such a provision may raise issues of equity and non-discrimination. A rights-based approach, the CHR stresses, requires that those with less in life be given more in law.
As the nation observes the International Day for Older Persons and Elderly Filipino Week this October, the CHR reiterates its call to eliminate barriers that hinder older persons from living a life of inclusion and dignity. The duty of care towards the elderly is not only a constitutional mandate but also a moral obligation.
Together, let us affirm our collective commitment to advance the rights and well-being of all, especially our elderly. ###