ILOILO City – Business establishments and healthcare facilities were urged to comply with laws that ensure the rights and privileges of senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
In his privilege speech delivered during yesterday’s regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Councilor Johnny Young cited, among others, the discount privilege.
He stressed that these discounts can alleviate financial burden and make essential goods and services more accessible to the elderly and the PWDs.
Republic Act No. 9994, or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, and the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons guarantee the rights and privileges of senior citizens and PWDs, respectively.
Providing discounts is not only a legal obligation but also a reflection of a commitment to human rights, said Young.
He further emphasized that the benefits of senior citizens and PWD discounts are manyfold.
For one, these can help them save money on essential goods and services. This can be especially important for those living on limited budgets.
He added that with a little bit of extra savings, they can have money to spend on things that they enjoy such as hobbies, travel and spending time with their families.
“It is imperative that we honor these laws and ensure their effective implementation in our city,” stressed Young.
However, the city councilor noted that some establishments may be hesitant to provide these discounts, citing potential financial concerns.
But Young stressed the importance of recognizing the benefits of such a policy.
“By attracting and serving senior citizens and persons with disabilities, establishments can tap into an often-overlooked customer base. This can lead to increased patronage and loyalty, creating a win-win situation for both the businesses and the individuals they serve,” he added.
The city councilor further urged business owners to train their staff on these regulations, raise awareness about the importance of inclusivity, and develop processes to facilitate smooth transactions for these individuals.
Moreover, he called upon the local government to play an active role in monitoring and enforcing these regulations.
“By conducting regular inspections and engaging in constructive dialogues with establishments, we can ensure compliance and address any concerns or challenges faced by businesses and healthcare,” said Young./PN
