BACOLOD City – Rep. Greg Gasataya filed a bill seeking to exempt senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) from paying travel tax.
Gasataya said House Bill No. 7964, or the “Tax-Free Travel for Senior Citizens and PWDs Act,” aims to reduce the financial burden of old people and PWDs while travelling.
“Those who have less in life should have more in law,” added Gasataya. “While there are exciting benefits for senior citizens and PWDs provided for by law, the state can further develop policies that would induce a more satisfactory life for them.”
The lone Bacolod district representative said senior citizens and PWDs “most likely” need special medical attention.
“Despite our country’s significant advances in the field of medical technology, it cannot be denied that there are still procedures for certain illnesses that are exclusive or are more affordable in countries abroad. Thus, overseas travel must be made accessible to senior citizens and PWDs,” Gasataya said.
In his proposal, Gasataya laid down the travel tax amounts for the economy class based on Presidential Decree 1183 – P1,620 full travel tax, P810 standard reduced travel tax and P300 privileged reduced tax.
For the first class, the full travel tax amounts to P2,700 while the standard reduced tax is P1,350 and the privileged reduced tax, P400.
“As many senior citizens rely solely on pension and PWDs on their families’ income, it is imperative for the state to provide them with as much privileges as possible,” Gasataya said./PN
