Senior citizens comm tackles proposed discount signage supporting elders, PWDs

THE City Council committee on senior citizens, chaired by Councilor Yevonna Yacine B. Emano, tackled the proposal that would require all establishments in the city to post signages showing discounts and benefits for senior citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

It may be recalled that Councilor Roger G. Abaday proposed in the previous regular session of the City Council for the passage of an ordinance which would enhance public awareness on the matter.

There are challenges that seniors and individuals with disabilities face when trying to access services, often limited by a lack of awareness about the benefits available to them.

During the meeting, Ma. Cheryl Gacita, City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) PWD-focal person, said that the issuance of the identification card (ID) is mandated by law. Thus, PWDs must always present their ID when availing the discounts.

In response to the concern of Councilor Emano as to how can establishments be assured of the ID authenticity, Ms. Gacita said the IDs are registered in the Philippine Registry of PWDs system under the Department of Health (DOH) and can be accessed by the establishments themselves.

For her part, Atty. Marianne Guibone of the City Legal Office said that posting of signages is also mandatory, and it depends upon the city’s Permits and Licensing Division and the Regulatory Compliance Board (RCB) to supervise compliance of the law.

In fairness to the establishments, however, Atty. Guibone said this will be an additional cost to the businessmen.

“This must be properly coordinated. Let us assess if it is really needed,” she opined.

20% DISCOUNT PLUS 12% VAT

With regards to the 20% discount plus the additional 12% Value Added Tax (VAT), it only applies to VAT-registered companies or individuals who are involve in selling, leasing, exchanging goods or properties and rendering services if the actual gross sales or receipts total up to ₱3 million, cited Atty. Guibone.

“Some of us think that it is automatic. But if the establishment is not VAT-registered, basically, didto sa gyud sa 20% discount on the food only,” she stressed.

After thorough deliberation, Councilors Romeo V. Calizo, Christian Rustico Achas and Imee Moreno moved to defer the matter, subject to further study to determine if the passage of an ordinance is necessary. (JBDacer/SP)