Philippines backs legally binding instrument on aging

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines conveyed its support for a legally binding instrument on aging to ensure that the rights, needs and wellbeing of older persons are promoted, protected and fulfilled.

At the 10th Session of the Open-ended Working Group on Aging at the United Nations held recently in New York, Chargé D’ Affaires and deputy Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN in New York Kira Christianne Azucena said the Philippine government recognizes that older persons are agents of change and development.

Azucena expressed the commitment of the Philippines to advance the wellbeing of older persons and remains committed in strengthening the promotion of all their human rights. She said the Philippine government makes every effort to address the challenges faced by older persons, noting that when it is about aging, it is a race against time.

Azucena also mentioned the Expanded Senior Citizens Act, which aims to provide benefits to senior citizens along the measures undertaken and provisions of universal health insurance for senior citizens, removing value-added tax from medications for the three common maladies of the elderly – diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension, cash incentive for centenarians, and inclusion of older persons in training and capacity-building activities.

“Older persons deserve respect, dignity and the full enjoyment of their right. They deserve a special place in this journey where no one, especially not them, should be left behind,” she said.

Representatives of member states, national human rights institutions and non-government organizations attended the event, which focused on education, lifelong education and learning, social protection and social security, including social protection floors.

The gathering was also an opportunity to share views on these areas which are crucial for improved quality of life and equality for older persons. It is also a platform to learn from the rich experiences and ideas presented by other member states.