THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) commends the filing of Senate bills addressing elderly healthcare, particularly Senate Bill (SB) No. 979, the "Senior Citizens' Hospital Act," and SB No. 2687, the "Philippine Geriatric Center Act." These bills aim to ensure access to specialized healthcare for senior citizens through the establishment of medical services and institutions focused on their needs. SB No. 979, proposed by Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel 3rd, and SB No. 2687, introduced by Senator Raffy Tulfo, aim to create a tertiary specialty hospital dedicated to elderly care, preparing for the nation's shift to an "aging society" by 2032. SB No. 2687 also seeks to rename the National Center for Geriatric Health (NCGH) as the Philippine Geriatric Center (PGC) under the Department of Health (DoH), upgrading its facilities to improve patient care. Both bills focus on fair resource allocation for disadvantaged elderly persons. The CHR supports these initiatives as they address the unique healthcare needs of older adults and combat ageism, which can manifest in limited access to treatment and inadequate geriatric services. Ensuring comprehensive geriatric care is vital for the well-being and dignity of the elderly. These bills align with Article XIII, Section 11 of the 1987 Constitution, emphasizing the State's responsibility to prioritize healthcare for the underprivileged, including the elderly. They also complement Republic Act No. 9994, which mandates integrated healthcare for senior citizens, and upholds international principles protecting the elderly's right to a decent standard of living. The CHR acknowledges the efforts of Senators Pimentel and Tulfo in filing these bills, recognizing them as essential steps toward advancing healthcare for the elderly and a significant human rights initiative for all Filipinos. The Commission hopes for the swift passage of these bills to ensure better healthcare and dignity for elderly Filipinos.
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