Senior citizen benefits and healthcare protections were the focus of a call by Philippine lawmaker Chel Diokno, who urged stronger safeguards against elder abuse, free dialysis and access to medicines.

Senior citizen benefits and proposed protections

Speaking to senior citizens’ association members in Camarines Norte in October 2026, the Akbayan Party-list representative said older people need sustained assistance and protection, not just financial aid.

Diokno cited three proposed measures: House Bill No. 3647, which seeks stronger safeguards against elder abuse; House Bill No. 8368, which would provide free dialysis for senior citizens; and House Bill No. 6835, which aims to bring healthcare services and free medicines to villages. The measures are bills, not enacted benefits.

Identification and purchase booklets

Diokno also reminded seniors of their benefits under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act. He said they may present another valid government-issued ID to claim discounts if they do not have a senior citizen ID.

He said purchase booklets are no longer required for medicine discounts but remain necessary for other covered purchases, including groceries and liquefied petroleum gas. He encouraged seniors to assert their rights when establishments refuse to honor their benefits.

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