For many years, senior citizens in Cebu City who failed to register as voters in 2013 have been left in regret, missing out on annual financial assistance worth P12,000. Under City Ordinance 2453, only those who registered in 2013 are eligible for the aid. However, Councilors Nyza "Nice" Archival, Pastor "Jun" Alcover Jr., and Harry Eran have introduced a resolution to amend the ordinance, a move that will surely delight seniors long deprived of the benefit.
Proposed Amendment to Ordinance 2453
The three councilors are pushing for a resolution that suggests amending City Ordinance 2453. If approved, senior citizens who registered in 2014 will also be eligible for the government aid. This is not just an ordinary legal change; it is a compassionate, long-awaited correction of a barrier that lacks sufficient basis.
While it is understandable that the city government needs a method to ensure residency and prevent fund abuse, the 2013 cutoff no longer serves its purpose well. The hope is that no one will block this initiative by Archival, Alcover, and Eran, as it will bring great joy to senior citizens who have spent years in regret or envy of others who benefited from the aid simply because of a one-year gap in the registration cutoff.
Impact on Senior Citizens
This P3,000 quarterly payout can significantly help senior citizens with their daily expenses. The Local Government Code of 1991 mandates local governments to create and implement social welfare programs. The financial assistance for senior citizens in Cebu City is one of its flagship programs. Expanding the coverage to include those who registered in 2014 aligns perfectly with this mandate.
If the number of beneficiaries increases, naturally, the required funds will also rise. It is hoped that this will not become a reason to reject the proposal by Archival, Alcover, and Eran. Shifting the cutoff year to 2014 is a correct step. Senior citizens have dedicated their lives for a long time to contribute to the city's development, so they deserve support in the twilight of their lives.
Call for Support
The councilors urge their colleagues to support the amendment, emphasizing that it is a matter of fairness and compassion. The city government must ensure that no senior citizen is left behind due to a technicality. The proposed change is a testament to the city's commitment to the welfare of its elderly residents.
