The Department of Trade Industry (DTI) is set to roll out additional discounts for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) on grocery items starting Monday, March 25. The move comes following the publication of a new Joint Administrative Order signed by the DTI, the Department of Agriculture (DA), and the Department of Energy.
Under the new regulation, senior citizens and PWDs can avail of a weekly discount of P125 on basic necessities and prime commodities, an increase from the previous P65 cap. DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “Napaka-importante nito dahil gusto nating mabigyan ng welfare yung mga senior citizen and PWD sa mga items na ‘di covered ng 20 percent senior citizen o PWD discount.”
Online purchases will also be included in the new policy. DTI Assistant Secretary Amanda Nograles explained, “Hinayaan na po natin yung mga kanya-kanyang establishments mag-implement kung paano nila ive-verify ito,” highlighting the flexibility given to businesses in implementing verification procedures.
Rona Castro, a 61-year-old beneficiary of the discount, expressed in an ABS-CBN News report her appreciation, especially amidst high inflation. “Mas maganda kung ganun. Sa panahon kasi natin ngayon mahal ang mga bilihin,” she said.
Atty. Rhea Ramos from the National Council on Disability Affairs noted the financial strain faced by families with PWD members and welcomed the increased discount, stating, “Marami yang sessions. So, of course, nagpapatong-patong ‘to kaya nga kahit middle income family, minsan, mabigat pa rin.”
To avail of the discount, customers must purchase at least four different items from the approved list, as specified by DTI Assistant Secretary Amanda Nograles. The new administrative order also stipulates that certain products must be locally produced or manufactured to be eligible for the increased discount.
However, concerns have been raised by retailers regarding the financial implications of the policy. Steven Cua, president of the Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association, expressed apprehension about the potential price hikes, stating, “For sure magtataas ang presyo ng mga bilihin.”
Responding to such concerns, DTI Secretary Pascual highlighted the need for legislative action to address the issue comprehensively. “‘Yun ang kailangan ng batas at pag-uusapan siguro sa Kongreso,” he stated.
While some stakeholders remain dissatisfied, the DTI assured that Barangay Micro Business Enterprises and small farmers cooperatives are exempt from the discount policy due to their already lower pricing structures.