During the Senate plenary deliberations on the proposed 2024 budget of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other agencies, I reiterated the importance of pursuing social programs that benefit the neediest sectors of our society.

Our elderly have a special place in my heart, which is why I wanted to make sure that they are given enough allocation for their social pension in accordance with the law. Republic Act 11916 amends RA 7432 to increase the monthly pension allowance of qualified indigent senior citizens from P500 to P1,000. As one of its co-authors, I reminded concerned authorities to ensure full law implementation.

Given their advanced age and socio-economic situation, the increase aims to support their basic necessities and medical needs. It is sad to hear that there is an existing backlog in paying pensions for senior citizens. Several indigent senior citizens are still waitlisted. We hope our authorities can address this issue immediately and ensure that those deemed qualified for the social pension increase are given the benefits they deserve.

I am reiterating my support for DSWD, considering its crucial role in helping impoverished Filipinos who need government support. While I appreciate DSWD's perseverance in assisting as many indigents as possible, I would like to emphasize that they should remain impartial, non-selective, and politics-free in providing aid intended for the poor, especially those facing crises.

I have consistently supported the programs of DSWD, and I am ready to support initiatives geared toward helping indigent Filipinos. My dedication to helping those in need is evident in the regular activities of my team. Despite our busy schedule in the Senate, we continue to help improve public service delivery to our fellow citizens, especially the poor.

On 15 November, I was the guest of honor at the 2023 Muay Thai National Championship Opening Ceremony held at the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City. As Chair of the Senate Sports Committee, I expressed my utmost support to Filipino athletes and the sports community, knowing how crucial sports is in nation-building. I reiterated my call for the youth to get into sports and stay away from drugs to keep us healthy and fit.

In coordination with Congressman Sonny Mangaoang, we also helped 450 indigents of Tabuk, Kalinga, and 783 poor residents in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, in cooperation with the GP Partylist. The qualified beneficiaries also received separate assistance from the government.

We also assisted small entrepreneurs like 79 in Dagupan City, Pangasinan; and another 15 in Glan, Sarangani. They were also provided with livelihood kits from the Department of Trade and Industry through a program we support. We also supported TESDA trainees in Cebu, including 77 in Argao and another 48 in Sibonga.

As the Senate deliberates on the proposed national budget for next year, let us remember our mission to uplift the lives of those who need government support the most. We must prioritize the poor and those facing challenges to ensure that no Filipino is left behind toward full pandemic recovery and progress.