Senior citizens in Baguio must have a share in the annual budget of the 128 barangays for their programs and projects, a city councilor proposed last week.
Councilor Nicasio Aliping Jr. proposed that at least one percent of the respective annual budgets of the 128 barangays must be allotted to finance or promote programs and projects meant to empower the elders.
Aliping said that the 1991 Local Government Code does not mention any budget for the senior citizens but it mentioned that 10 percent of the general fund of the barangay is set aside for Sangguniang Kabataan (SK).
The councilor, however, reminded that joint circular 2003-01 dated April 28, 2003, issued by the Department of Budget and Management and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, mandated for the setting aside of one percent of government agency budget for program and projects related to senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
“Senior citizens play an important role in our society and the community as well, their contribution and participation in nation building is highly recognized and appreciated by the community,” Aliping said, adding that funding the initiatives of the elders would encourage them further.
“This one percent to be allocated and appropriated by the barangays will improve, promote, and enhance the welfare of the senior citizens and support any projects, programs, and activities that would benefit our elderly,” he added.
The proposed budget allocation is one of the latest proposals aimed at encouraging the senior citizens in Baguio for them to be supportive of political and civic affairs.
Recently, councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda proposed an ordinance that seeks to give incentives and awards to best barangay senior citizens units in Baguio.
Tabanda proposed the grant of incentives and awards to outstanding senior citizens unitsas part of the city’s celebration of the Filipino Elderly Month every October.
The objectives of the program, Tabanda said, is to recognize the efforts and participation of organized senior citizens groups in the barangay level; to encourage the elderly to plan and carry out activities for their self-enhancement and continuing development; and to assist them in availing themselves of benefits entitled to them. |
