BIRTHDAY CASH GIFT. Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodoro on Wednesday (July 31, 2024) signs Ordinance No. 40 Series of 2024 at the City Hall. The measure increases the birthday cash gift of elderly residents from PHP1,000 to PHP2,000. (Photo courtesy of Marikina PIO)
MANILA – Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro signed an ordinance doubling the birthday cash gift for senior citizens starting this August.
Ordinance No. 40 Series of 2024 increases the benefit from PHP1,000 to PHP2,000.
“Ang simpleng handog na ito ay hindi lamang isang financial benefit, ito ay isang pagkilala at pagpapahalaga sa inyong naging bahagi sa paghubog ng ating lungsod (This simple gift is not only a financial benefit. This is a recognition of your role in the city's development)," Teodoro said in a video message late Wednesday.
The city has around 96,000 elderly citizens, according to the latest data of its Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA).
Teodoro said the measure will not only benefit senior citizens but also their loved ones.
Vice Mayor Marion Andres, a senior citizen himself, thanked Teodoro for signing the ordinance.
“The gesture of granting a birthday cash gift is a tangible expression of the city’s gratitude and appreciation for the elderly, fostering a sense of belonging and respect within the community,” the measure stated.
It also noted that the increasing cost of living necessitates additional financial support for senior citizens, many of whom rely on fixed incomes that may not sufficiently cover their needs.
“Increasing this amount by an additional PHP1,000, for a total of PHP2,000, will provide greater financial assistance to senior citizens, helping to address their unique needs and improve their quality of life, thereby promoting their well-being and dignity,” it said.
In 2016, the local government passed Ordinance No. 60 which grants a PHP1,000 birthday cash gift to senior citizens. (PNA)
