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| The Lower House approves the creation of a comprehensive nutrition and wellness program for senior citizens, reinforcing their health and well-being. Photo: DOH/NCC/Facebook |
PHILIPPINES – The Lower House of Congress has successfully passed on its third and final reading of the proposal to establish a comprehensive nutrition and wellness program for senior citizens, aiming to fortify their physical well-being.
266 congressmen voted in favor of House Bill No. 8461, which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 7432, also known as the Senior Citizens Act.
The proposal mandates the National Nutrition Council (NNC), Department of Health (DOH), and local government units, through their respective Office for the Senior Citizens Affairs, to develop a comprehensive nutrition and wellness program tailored to the needs of senior citizens.
According to House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, the approval of this proposal underscores the House's commitment to aiding the improvement of Filipinos' lives, particularly in safeguarding the well-being of the elderly.
Senior Citizen Committee Chairman and Senior Citizen Partylist Representative Rodolfo Ordanes Jr. expressed optimism that the program's enactment will lead to cost savings in terms of hospitalization and medical expenses for senior citizens. He believes that providing sufficient nutrition will contribute to their overall health, thus enhancing their quality of life. —iTacloban