Universal Social Pension bill backed by CHR

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday voiced its full support for the proposed Universal Social Pension Act, arguing the measure aligns with the government’s constitutional and international obligations to protect older persons.

The endorsement of Senate Bill No. 2929 came during the celebration of Elderly Filipino Week and the International Day for Older Persons this month. The bill seeks to institutionalize monthly financial assistance for all senior citizens nationwide.

Under the proposal, indigent elderly individuals would receive P1,000 monthly, while non-indigents would get P500.

The CHR stated the bill promotes social inclusion and dignity, affirming the economic, social, and cultural rights of older Filipinos who continue to face daily struggles despite existing government support.

It also views the initiative as part of the State’s broader obligation to care for the elderly, citing the 1987 Constitution and international commitments such as the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights.

While supporting the measure, the CHR flagged potential issues regarding equity. The agency expressed concern over the bill’s “ladderized” structure, which would increase the pension for non-indigent seniors after five years but keep the amount for indigent seniors fixed.

The commission warned that such provisions “may raise issues of equity and discrimination,” arguing that a rights-based approach requires that “those with less in life be given more in law.”

The CHR urged lawmakers to ensure that pension rates are reviewed regularly and adjusted to reflect inflation and the rising cost of living.

In addition to the pension, the CHR called for complementary policies, recommending improvements in healthcare access, livelihood support, and community-based care systems to ensure a more holistic approach to aging.