A bill has been filed in both houses of Congress to grant a small pension (1,000 pesos or U$ 22) monthly to the poorest old people in the Philippines. A UN sponsored dialogue between government organizations held in Bangkok early 2007 pointed out that: - There is clear evidence internationally of the positive impact of non-contributory social pensions in the reduction of poverty as well as in social and economic development.
- The existence of several schemes for delivery of social pensions and other forms of social protection in Asia is a demonstration of the intent and commitment of our governments to ensure economic security for all Asians in old age
- Recent economic studies, as well as experiences of several countries demonstrate that social pensions are an affordable and cost effective way of delivering social protection to older people.
The dialogue included most countries in Southeast Asia – some poorer economically than the Philippines. The Philippines was the only country represented without some form of social protection for poor older people. WHY NOT NOW??? |
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