A party-list lawmaker filed a bill that aims to provide free vaccines against infectious diseases to all senior citizens in the country.
Agri Party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee filed House Bill 11055, known as the proposed Safeguarding Seniors: Free Immunization Act.
The measure seeks to amend Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, which limits free vaccinations to the indigent seniors.
Under Lee's proposal, senior citizens will receive free immunization not only for influenza and pneumococcal disease but also for pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, diphtheria, and other diseases as deemed necessary by the Department of Health (DOH).
"We Filipinos greatly value our grandparents and parents who cared for and raised us. In their old age, we wish to care for them and given them appropriate attention," Lee said.
Lee said senior citizens are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases due to weakened immune systems.
"Many diseases can have severe or even fatal effects for older adults, whose immune systems often become weaker as they age. Vaccines are crucial for preventing diseases, especially if they are made free and more accessible to all senior citizens," he said.
Lee said many seniors fear falling ill due to their inability to afford treatment or hospitalization.
He said the proposed free vaccination for all senior citizens is in line with the objectives of Republic Act 11223 or the Universal Health Care Act, which promotes free treatment and medicine for all Filipinos.
"The bill aligns with the government's broader commitment to protecting the health and well-being of the elderly, promoting their right to healthcare, and ensuring that they live healthier, longer lives," Lee said.