Makati earmarks P126M for programs for elderly

The Makati government has allotted nearly P126 million for its programs and services to senior citizens this year. In a statement issued Saturday, Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. said these benefits are just a small reward for what the senior citizens have done for the city. “Compared to what they have done for the city and for the country as a whole, these benefits are but small rewards. We cannot thank them enough for nurturing the youth to become upright and responsible citizens," he said. “Neither can we forget the services they rendered to the people as public servants or private workers during their prime," the mayor added. The P125.7-million budget include:

• P14 million for free movies;
• P9.4 million for free cakes on birthdays and golden wedding anniversaries;
• almost P1 million for leisure tours;
• P96 million for financial assistance to relatives of deceased senior citizens;
• P4.5 million for “Aawitan Kita" concert;
• P4 million for burial assistance;
• P263,000 for Elderly Filipino Week celebration;
• P85,000 for Chinese New Year celebration; and
• P160,000 for programs and maintenance of SM Felicidad Sy Elderly Center.