CHR supports incentives on hiring employable seniors

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has expressed support for House Bill (HB) 2384 which seeks to increase incentives for private entities that hire the elderly.

The bill upholds older persons' right to work, social security and adequate standard of living. It can also empower their right to participate in the affairs of their communities and the country.

Authored by House Representatives Paolo Duterte, Eric Yap, Edvic Yap and Jeffrey Soriano, the bill aims to expand job opportunities for the elderly, effectively amending parts of the Republic Act (RA) 9994 or the "Expanded Senior Citizen Act of 2010."

Passage of this bill paves way for the Philippines' further compliance with the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) by promoting rights of the elderly and their pursuit for self-determination.

"To address negative prejudices about hiring the elderly, CHR supports the incentives proposed by HB 2384. This measure will help eliminate assumptions with regards to employing the elderly, including health concerns, lack of technical and technological knowledge, or imminent retirement. Instead, may this bill foster increased awareness on the importance of employment in their mental and physical health, social security, and self-reliance, as well as growth of inclusive communities," the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said in a statement.

CHR also emphasized the government's essential role in promoting and protecting the rights of all Filipinos, especially older people.

"Passage of the proposed bill not only serves to fulfill the State's human rights obligations, but also imparts a sense of fulfillment and dignity for the elderly members of our society," CHR said.