Senior Citizens Party-list Representative Rodolfo “Ompong” Ordanes has expressed full support for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) proposal to remove the Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity, saying the initiative will help ease the financial burden of senior citizens nationwide.
“For many of us, electricity is not just a basic need but a lifeline in every home. For senior citizens, access to power equates to comfort and safety, which are vital for this vulnerable sector,” Ordanes said.
The lawmaker commended Energy Secretary Sharon Garin for advocating the removal of VAT on electricity consumption, calling it a “clear act of compassion” that recognizes the growing financial challenges faced by the elderly.
“Many seniors still shoulder the cost of electricity in their households. That is why we are ready to work hand in hand with the DOE to ensure that this initiative gets the attention it deserves. This will not only ease the struggles of our elderly but also guarantee a more comfortable life through continued access to electricity,” Ordanes added.
Beyond the VAT removal, the Senior Citizens Party-list continues to push for increased electricity discounts for indigent and low-consuming seniors. Under current rules, senior citizens who consume up to 100 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month are entitled to a 5% discount.
To provide greater relief, Ordanes has filed House Bill No. 434, which seeks to raise the discount to 15% for senior citizens under the same consumption category.
The party-list has also expressed appreciation to enterprises and utilities that actively implement senior citizen discounts, emphasizing the importance of public-private collaboration in promoting social welfare.
Recently, Ordanes attended the Household Electrification Program lighting ceremony of the One Meralco Foundation (OMF) in Novaliches, Quezon City, where over 160 households were given access to stable and reliable electricity.
“I saw the joy on the faces of the elderly beneficiaries who can now enjoy the benefits of having electricity in their homes,” he shared.
Ordanes reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring fair and inclusive access to electricity for all Filipinos, particularly the elderly.
“As your voice in Congress, I will not stop fighting for decent, fair, and inclusive access to electricity,” Ordanes said.