Silver linings, golden opportunities

As the 2025 midterm elections draw to a close, nearly 100 percent of the votes from Comelec are already being tallied. In the coming days, newly elected leaders will once again be given the opportunity to serve the country. This election marks a significant era where Filipinos have started to think more critically, and political leaders are now under intense scrutiny. This shift is a positive development, benefiting the nation and future generations.

One crucial aspect of this midterm election is the demographic shift in the voter base. According to data, more than 40 million voters are millennials and Gen Z. The youth are driving the political landscape of this country, and this is something the new set of leaders – whether re-electionists or newcomers –must consider. This new breed of voters is highly aware and engaged. They understand the power of digital media and use it to call out mistakes and inefficiencies. They leverage platforms to ensure transparency and accountability. I am personally excited to see how this new environment, shaped by these proactive voters, will evolve.

Interestingly, while the majority of voters belong to the younger generation, one of the top party-lists securing seats in the next Congress is the Senior Citizens party-list led by Rep. Rodolfo ‘Ompong’ Ordanes. This outcome highlights the importance placed on the welfare of our elders. The Senior Citizens party-list is renowned for advocating the rights and improving the quality of life for the elderly population. As a senior citizen myself, I am among those who are truly delighted with this development.

I’ve had the privilege of discussing several issues with Rep. Ordanes on numerous occasions, and I can personally attest to the value that he and the Senior Citizens party-list bring on a national scale. Their commitment to improving the lives of elderly Filipinos is truly commendable.

One of the standout initiatives is House Bill 10985, or the “Employment Opportunities for Senior Citizens and Private Entities’ Incentives Act.” This bill aims to empower the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through its Public Employment Offices (PESO) to provide information to senior citizens about possible positions in companies where they can be re-employed.

In one of our discussions for a program I host called Senior Hour, Rep. Ordanes explained the bill’s provisions. In detail, “all government agencies and private entities shall institute an employment program that promotes the general well-being of senior citizens and ensure access to employment opportunities to those who have the qualifications, capacity, and interest to be employed,” according to the bill.

HB 10985 also outlines various positions that senior citizens can take up to be re-employed, such as clerical or secretarial work, consultancy, cleaning or janitorial services, event organizing, teaching, kitchen help, sales assistance, BPOs, and other jobs or volunteer work.

Additionally, HB 10985 states that the private sector employing senior citizens, once the bill is enacted, will receive an additional deduction of 25 percent in their annual statement of gross income due to the salaries, benefits, and training provided to their senior citizen employees. All senior citizens will also be exempt from paying for documents required for their re-employment, such as birth certificates, police clearances, medical certificates, and others. This provision removes barriers and makes the process smoother for seniors looking to re-enter the workforce.

In my conversations with Rep. Ordanes, his dedication to these initiatives was evident. His efforts are not just about passing laws but about making a tangible difference in the lives of senior citizens. This bill, along with others, showcases the progressive and inclusive approach needed to support our elderly population.

Another bill that the party-list is pushing is one that resonate with me as a senior citizen in the workforce. Given today’s prevailing economic and social conditions, it is high time for the government to implement tax exemptions for Filipino elderly who still work. Currently, senior citizens who receive minimum wage are the only ones exempted from paying income tax under Republic Act 9994.

In my interview with Rep. Ordanes, he said that, “due to the hardships brought about by inflation, we need to support our senior citizens. It is part of our culture that even as seniors, we help our children and grandchildren with their education, and we also need medicine for our health.”

Rep. Ordanes’ HB 2093 seeks to exempt seniors with a monthly income of P80,000 and below from paying income tax. I believe this proposal could be further expanded, and I urge the government to consider this, as well as other policies, to provide seniors with either full income tax exemption or at least additional tax relief.

“We will continue to fight for your rights and welfare to elevate the dignity and quality of life, and we will keep passing meaningful laws for our senior sector,” Rep. Ordanes said.

I can’t emphasize enough how important Rep. Ordanes’ representation in Congress is for someone like me who has recently become a senior citizen. With this renewed presence, the Senior Citizens party-list can keep pushing for policies that truly benefit us. This means advocating for better healthcare, social security, and job opportunities.

Having more visibility in legislative discussions ensures that our issues get the attention they deserve. This seat can help pass bills that provide financial assistance, tax exemptions, and other benefits to ease the burden on elderly citizens. It also fosters a sense of empowerment and inclusion, encouraging seniors to stay active and engaged in society. This can help combat ageism and promote a more inclusive community.