Councilor Go leads review of Oro senior citizen code

THE committee on senior citizens, chaired by Councilor Gilda O. Go, reviewed the proposed ordinance adopting the Senior Citizens Code of Cagayan de Oro City during its meeting on September 9, 2026.

The committee discussed various provisions of the proposed Code, including senior citizen benefits, financial assistance, enforcement mechanisms, and penalties for violations.

Councilor Roger G. Abaday proposed incorporating provisions from an ordinance he filed in 2016 that would provide incentives to establishments actively participating in programs to prevent fraud against senior citizens. He also called for clear provisions on the monitoring and implementation of the program.

The provision on free admission to movie houses also drew discussion, particularly on its limitations during special film showings and on who may avail of the privilege.

Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez questioned whether the privilege would be limited to bona fide senior citizens of Cagayan de Oro, noting that the city serves as the commercial center and gateway of Northern Mindanao.

He pointed out that many senior citizens from neighboring areas regularly come to the city, where major establishments such as SM and Ayala malls are concentrated.

Rodriguez suggested that the committee consider extending the privilege to senior citizens from neighboring localities, noting that similar arrangements may be observed in Metro Manila.

Legal concerns were also raised by Atty. Edgardo Uy of the Regulatory Compliance Board (RCB), particularly on the proposed income tax exemption, complaint procedures, administrative sanctions, and the authority to suspend business permits.

Uy recommended simplifying the filing of complaints by allowing written complaints or prescribed forms instead of requiring notarized complaints.

He also suggested a clear process from OSCA investigation to the Multi-Agency Senior Citizen Enforcement Board and, when warranted, referral to the City Mayor for appropriate action.

The committee further discussed the proposed penalties, including the need for a general penalty clause covering violations not specifically provided for in the code, as well as clearer provisions on senior citizen discounts, fare matrices, and priority lanes.

Councilor Yevonna Yacine B. Emano, meanwhile, proposed strengthening provisions on the social pension of indigent senior citizens, including consideration of a higher pension amount, a regular release schedule, and the timely release of burial assistance.

The proposed measure will undergo further review and refinement before being advanced for subsequent legislative consideration. (JAO/SP)