Instead of relying solely on families or private facilities, the Senate is now weighing a proposal that would make institutional elder care a basic public service across the country.
Robin Padilla has filed Senate Bill No. 20, formally titled the Nursing Home for Senior Citizens Act, which calls for the establishment of at least one nursing home in every city or province in the Philippines. The measure is intended to create publicly supported care facilities for older Filipinos who require long-term assistance, supervision, or medical attention.
In pushing the bill, Padilla underscored the social responsibility attached to caring for the elderly, framing the proposal as a reflection of national values rather than a purely health-driven initiative. “Layunin po natin na matiyak na may ligtas, maayos, at may malasakit na kalinga para sa kanila, dahil ang pag-aaruga sa nakatatanda ay tanda ng isang makataong lipunan,” the senator said.
The proposed law outlines a nationwide framework for senior care facilities to be set up and maintained by the government, with funding to be allocated for their construction, operation, and staffing. The measure also envisions standardized conditions to ensure that services provided are safe, humane, and appropriate for aging populations.
Senate Bill No. 20 is currently pending in the Senate and has yet to move past the committee level.
