Gov't order increasing monthly discount of seniors, PWDs on groceries signed

Senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) can enjoy a higher special discount on their groceries beginning next week.

This, after the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Agriculture (DA), and the Department of Energy (DOE), signed a joint administrative order (JAO) on Thursday, March 21.

The JAO effectively raises the current 5% special discount for seniors and PWDs on the purchase of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) from the current P65 per week to P125 per week, or a cumulative total of P500 per month.

In a news release, the DTI said the JAI is expected to take effect upon its publication on March 25.

The joint order is subject to review every five years.

The order raised the maximum discountable amount on purchases made by seniors and PWDs to P2,500 per week from the current P1,300 per week, in which the 5% special discount would be computed.

This means even if the purchases exceed P2,500, the allowable amount to be discounted would still be 5% of P2,500 or equivalent to P125.

"We recognize the valuable contributions of our senior citizens and persons with disabilities to our society, and this initiative reiterates our unwavering commitment to ensure their access to essential goods," said Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual.

The goods covered under the JAO are BNPCs, as defined by the Price Act, which are essential for consumers' sustenance, especially during calamities or emergencies.

The DTI said the special discount is for the exclusive use of senior citizens and PWDs, with no provision for carrying over any unused amount to the following weeks.

The joint order reiterates the right of senior citizens and PWDs to purchase their basic goods through a representative, extends the discounts to online purchases, and clarifies the rule against double discounts, according to the Trade department.

The DTI also clarified that the discounts under the JAO are separate from the 20% statutory discount granted under Republic Act 9994, or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, and Republic Act 10754, or An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of PWDs.  

Moreover, the agency said the JAO does not apply to registered Barangay Micro Business Establishments and cooperatives.

"Our collaboration with the DA and DOE, alongside the active participation of our valued national government agencies, retailers, consumer organizations, and consumers during the public consultations, have been instrumental in achieving this remarkable milestone," said Pascual. — VDV, GMA Integrated News