Quick Guide for Senior Citizen Discount in the Philippines
Wondering when you can avail yourself and enjoy a senior citizen discount?
In the Philippines, any person will be known as a senior citizen or elderly when they reach the age of 60. This means when you reach that age, you are entering the retirement world.
In addition, it means you are about to end your career life and rest after less than or more than 40 years of working to provide and sustain your personal and family needs.
This is the time to pay back a stress-free life! No more routine work, no more over-times, no more bosses, etc. They will have 24 hours free to enjoy themselves, spend time with their families, and do things they never did in their younger and busy life years.
But for some, it sounded boring. Some worried about money to spend on their future needs like food, medicines, and bills.
Don’t worry and be happy because you are about to discover what privileges and rights that our beloved parents or grandparents will have by reading this quick guide!
After reading this, you can help your parents and grandparents to exercise their rights!
Credit: https://theprint.in/india/this-is-how-senior-citizens-are-coping-with-erratic-essential-supplies-and-medical-care/395703/
Table of Contents
What are the Mandatory Senior Citizen Discount and Benefits in the Philippines?
Senior Citizen Discounts and VAT Exemptions
Philippines Senior Citizen Benefits
How to properly calculate the Senior Citizen Discount?
- Step 1. VAT-Exempt Sales Computation
- Step 2. 20% Senior Citizen Discount Computation
- Step 3. Billable Amount Computation
Must-Know Facts about Senior Citizen Discounts and Privileges
- The Senior Citizen Law is Everywhere
- Always Priority in Queue Lines
- Mandatory PhilHealth Benefits for Senior Citizens
- Use any Valid ID for Senior Citizen Discount
- Claim 20% Discount through an Authorized Representative
- No Double Discounts in the Senior Citizen Act
- Avail 5% Utility Discounts for Senior Citizens
- Get a 5% Senior Citizen Discount on Grocery Items
- Avail of 20% Discount on Ride-Hailing Services
- Online Domestic Flight Booking has Senior Citizen Discount
- Vehicle Coding Exemption and Free Parking Fee in Certain Cities
- Online Domestic Flight Booking has Senior Citizen Discount
How to Qualify for a Senior Citizen Discount?
What to do to Get a Senior Citizen ID Card?
Qualifications for a Senior Citizen ID Card
Requirements for the Senior Citizen ID Card Philippines
Steps to get the Senior Citizen ID Card
What are the Government Assistance offered for Senior Citizens?
Social Security System Pension
What are the Mandatory Senior Citizen Discount and Benefits in the Philippines?
All senior citizens have entitled privileges. It is clearly stated in the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 (Republic Act 1994).
Filipinos aged 60 and above are entitled 20% discount senior citizen discount.
Also, they are exempted from the value-added tax (VAT). Seniors can exclusively use this on applicable goods and services.
On top of that, you can pay it either on cash or credit card payments.
But what are these goods and services covered by the Senior Citizen Discounts?
Find it out.
Senior Citizen Discounts and VAT Exemptions
Listed below are the discounted goods, items, and services for Filipino Senior Citizens:
Medicines
Whether the medicine is branded or generic, you’ll get discounts as long as it has a doctor’s prescription. Vitamins and mineral supplements are included as well. Pharmacies will grant your senior citizen discount in medicine as long as you present your senior citizen booklet Philippines, too.
Medical supplies and equipment
Elderly in need of hearing aids, eyeglasses, wheelchairs, crutches, and dentures can avail discounts. Make sure that your physician prescribes it.
Medical and dental services
Diagnostic tests like blood tests and x-rays are within the scope of senior citizen discounts. It is usually accepted in private facilities.
Professional fees
The senior discount covers the fees charged by your attending physician. Also, it applies to licensed health workers.
Domestic air and sea travel fares
Traveling is more affordable at your age. Thanks for the senior discount. Book your ticket online or offline. Just present your senior citizen card.
Public land transportation fares
Riding a jeepney, bus, taxi, and shuttle service also has discounts. Also, you can avail yourself of a discounted train ride from MRT, LRT, and PNR.
Hotels
Enjoy your stay at your chosen accommodation with a discount for senior citizens. Also, take note that amenities in hotels, beach resorts, and mountain resorts are included.
Restaurants
Savor your favorite meal, food, and beverages when you present a senior citizen card. Enjoy them for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru or even thru delivery orders.
Recreation Centers
Rental fees are more affordable with the senior citizen discount. Included here are sports facilities like gyms, badminton courts, tennis courts, ballroom dancing studios.
Leisure places
Be entertained within your budget. Watch movies in cinemas, theatres and concert halls with a discount. Also, seniors can visit museums and parks with a price reduction.
Funeral and burial services
Discussing burial is taboo in the Philippines. But with the senior citizen discount, Filipinos are more open about it. Expenses at the hospital morgue and embalming have a cut price. Also, even casket, urn, and cremation prices are included.
Philippines Senior Citizen Benefits
There are other senior citizen privileges aside from the 20% discount.
These are as follows:
- Income Tax Exemption – This is applicable for seniors still working, especially for minimum wage earners.
- Training Fee Exemption – When you apply for socio-economic programs, you’re free from training fees.
- Free medical and dental services – Avail of this offer from government facilities. Preserve your health and wellness charge free.
- Free flu and pneumococcal vaccinations – This offer is exclusive for indigent senior citizens. If you know someone in need, inform them as soon as possible.
- Scholarships and financial assistance – Every senior can still finish their study with monetary assistance. Inquire at any public and private schools near you.
- SSS, GSIS, and Pag-IBIG Retirement benefits – Senior Citizens receive pensions from government agencies. Know which one is available for you.
- Special Program Discount – More offers are open only to senior citizens.
- Express Lanes – All government offices and commercial establishments offer a priority lane for senior citizens.
Be aware of this information offered to senior citizens. Assist your beloved grandparents with all their needs. Maximize the law mandated for them.
How to properly calculate the Senior Citizen Discount?
Every senior citizen can avail of the 20% discount on applicable items and services.
But, there’s more to that. Did you know that you can get more than 20% off the price you have to pay? How?
Listed below are the steps to learn how to properly compute the senior citizens’ discount:
Step 1. VAT-Exempt Sales Computation
Take note that seniors are exempted from paying the Value-Added Tax.
Proper computation of senior citizen discount is you divide the selling price by the VAT rate.
Example:
You purchased your prescribed medicines worth Php 1,000. The VAT rate is 12%.
The formula is: Selling Price ÷ VAT Rate = VAT-Exempt Sales.
This is how you solve it: Php 1,000 ÷ 1.12 = 892.86
That is how much you have to pay for a VAT-free purchase.
Step 2. 20% Senior Citizen Discount Computation
Senior Citizens can enjoy 20% off on relevant products and services.
To calculate discounts, it goes like this:
Deduct the percentage by multiplying VAT-Exempt Sales by 20%.
Formula: VAT-Exempted Sales x 20% = Senior Citizen Discount.
Solve it like this: Php 892.86 x 0.20 = 178.57
This is the amount to be deducted from the VAT-free price.
Step 3. Billable Amount Computation
The total amount you have to pay as a senior citizen is calculated this way.
Subtract the VAT-Exempt Sales by Senior Citizen Discount.
The formula is VAT-Exempt Sales – Senior Citizen Discount = Billable Amount.
For an instance: Php 892.86 – Php 178.57 = 714.29
The price you have to pay for Php 1,000 worth of medicine is Php 714.29.
In conclusion, you saved Php 285.71. That’s a big amount already.
Remember, it’s not enough that you get a discount. You have to avail yourself of your rights and privileges accurately. Keep in mind how to properly calculate the senior citizen discount.
Always bring the Senior Citizen ID card and booklet.
Must-Know Facts about Senior Citizen Discount and Privileges
In the Philippines, senior citizen law has a wide scope. However, not all netizens know and understand it.
Some provisions seem confusing for common people.
Avoid confusion and frustration, and be knowledgeable about it. Share it with your elderly loved ones and even friends.
Here are the special perks for senior citizens!
The Senior Citizen Law is Everywhere
Some reports stated that many businesses and establishments do not abide by the Senior Citizen Act.
They are probably not aware of it.
Approach the store owner or manager when your senior parents get denied by the mandatory 20% discount.
A senior discount is always applied wherever you are and what you buy. It is applicable all over the country.
Help your senior parents and grandparents exercise their rights.
Always Priority in Queue Lines
Wherever you go, there is always a priority lane for senior citizens, PWDs, and pregnant women.
Special lanes are found in fast food, restaurants, supermarkets, drug stores, banks, and LRT and MRT stations.
Moreover, establishments without a senior citizen lane prioritize elderly clients. They should abide by RA 9994.
If you were cut in line by a senior, don’t be mad. The cashier or government staff are not rude. They are just considerate of the elderly standing behind you. Plus, they are just obeying the law.
Mandatory PhilHealth Benefits for Senior Citizens
Republic Act 10645 indicates that all senior citizens will automatically receive PhilHealth coverage. Accredited healthcare facilities in the Philippines observe it.
Also, there are additional privileges for them apart from the senior citizen discount and VAT exemption.
If your grandfather is admitted to a private hospital, the 20% discount and VAT exemption are deducted from the medical bill first. Afterward, the PhilHealth benefit will be deducted.
But if he is admitted to a public hospital, the No Balance Billing Policy applies. This means that senior citizen patients no longer pay for their hospital bills. Simply present the Senior Citizen ID or any government ID. The Member Data Record (MDR) is not necessary.
Register your elderly loved ones as senior citizen PhilHealth members for better and faster PhilHealth benefits.
Use any Valid ID for Senior Citizen Discount
To avail of the 20% discount, a senior must present their senior citizen ID. It is issued by the Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA).
Without it, you can’t avail yourself of the privileges under the Senior Citizen Act. However, this is just a misconception.
Seniors are still entitled to a discount as long as they present any government-issued ID. This identification must indicate their age.
The following are the identification cards that the government and any private offices accept:
Important Reminder: Businesses and establishments honoring senior citizen ID only are prohibited. They have to provide any of the said government-issued IDs.
Public and private offices that refuse discounts for senior customers must be reported. Every senior has the right to demand the due discount with proper identification.
Claim a 20% Discount through an Authorized Representative
What if the senior citizens are weak or bedridden? Can they still benefit from the 20% discount on their food and medicine purchases? YES!
They can still claim the said discount through an Authorized Representative. They can transact these on behalf of senior citizens who are weak and bedridden. Make sure that the seniors are the ones who will use the discounted products and services.
To claim the 20% discount on behalf of your senior parent, present the following documents:
- Senior Citizen ID or any government-issued ID
- OSCA Purchase Booklet (for medicines or grocery)
- Representative’s government-issued ID
- Authorization letter from the senior citizen (duly signed or fingerprint stamped)
Look for an authorization letter to buy medicine for senior citizens sample as your guide.
Present all these before you make any purchases. For sure, you’ll get the appropriate discount for you.
No Double Discount in the Senior Citizen Act
Are seniors still allowed for a promotional discount on top of the 20% discount? Sadly, the answer is no.
The Senior Citizen Act states that a promotional purchase and senior citizen discount are not allowed. It’s either you get the senior discount or the promo. A cashier usually applies a higher discount.
Similar discounts apply to elderly persons with disabilities (PWDs). Senior Citizen discounts and PWD discounts are entitled to them. However, not both are allowed.
Avail 5% Utility Discount for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens can get a 5% discount on their power and water bills. Can you believe that? Well, that’s stated in the law. Make sure that all their accounts are registered in their name.
Also, the household does not consume more than 100kWh of electricity and 30 cubic meters of water in a month.
Get a 5% Senior Citizen Discount on Grocery Items
Also, there are privileges for grocery items. However, it is not 20%.
It’s better than nothing right?
A special 5% discount without VAT exemption for selected grocery items. This is granted by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Agriculture.
Buy groceries worth up to Php 1,300 per week and enjoy 5% off the retail prices of at least 4 kinds of necessities.
What are these prime commodities?
These are the following:
- Rice, bread, and corn
- Chicken, beef, and pork (can be fresh, canned, or processed)
- Fresh eggs
- Coffee, creamer, and sugar
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Garlic and onions
- Cooking oil and salt
- Noodles, canned sardine, and canned tuna
- Fresh milk and other dairy products
- Laundry Detergents
- Electrical supplies, light bulbs, and batteries
- Geriatric diapers
Always bring the OSCA purchase booklet when you shop in supermarkets, convenience stores, and drug stores. Surely, you can get the 5% senior citizen discount.
On the other hand, sari-sari stores, cooperative stores, wet markets, and talipapa are exempted from this special discount.
Avail of 20% Discount on Ride-Hailing Services
As of today, commuting is quite difficult. Several ride transfers are hard, especially for the elderly.
That’s why the Department of Transportation and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTRFB) approves discounts for seniors. Even the ride-hailing services in the Philippines like Grab are mandated to follow 20%.
Grab drivers must follow the law. But as a Grab rider, you must apply first before availing of it. If not, you can’t maximize your privilege.
Online Domestic Flight Booking has Senior Citizen Discount
Aside from land travel, air transportation is also a senior benefit.
Since September 2017, local travel destinations have been cheaper for senior citizens. Major airlines in the country offer a 20% senior citizen discount and VAT exemptions for online bookings.
Usually, AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines implement this on their official websites and mobile apps.
It is way better than before! Unlike in past years, the discount is only applied to over-the-counter purchases. This means you can only avail of your senior parent ticket discount at the physical ticket office.
Also, the discount is only applicable to regular domestic flight fares. Promo fares, baggage allowance, and other fees and international flights are not included.
To avail of the senior discount Philippines during online booking, you must have a senior citizen ID. Type in the ID number on the booking website. Present the senior citizen ID upon airport check-in.
Vehicle Coding Exemption and Free Parking Fee in Certain Cities
Being a senior citizen does not only mean you get discounts, but you also get amazing privileges as well.
Some local government units in the Philippines pamper senior citizens. Why? Because they have special treatments for them. They give out birthday cakes up to free movies. Magnificent right?
But there’s more. The most practical and useful advantage for seniors is related to commuting.
For example, the City of Makati and Manila exempt seniors from the number coding scheme. Regardless if the senior is the driver or a passenger.
On the other hand, Cebu City, Manila, Muntinlupa City, and Quezon City have other offers. Registered senior citizens have free parking in the area. Wonderful, isn’t it?
Inform your senior and driving parent about this. Guide them on how to make use of their privileges correctly.
If you have a senior parent, instruct them of their senior citizen discount and benefits. Guide them throughout the way.
Remember, you’ll get old as well. Hopefully, your kid will help you in the future when it’s your turn.
How to Qualify for a Senior Citizen Discount?
Wondering how you can avail of the best senior citizen discount? It is simple and easy. You must reach the age of 60 years old and above. Also, a proper identification indicating your age or birthdate is needed.
Primary and Secondary Valid IDs in the Philippines are accepted. But it is best if you have a Senior Citizen ID Card. The moment you present this card, the cashier can identify that you need the necessary discount.
Also, faster and more accessible transactions are made for you. No need to present other documents. Your Senior Citizen ID is enough. One identification is the key to numerous discounts and benefits.
What to do to Get a Senior Citizen ID Card?
The all-around valid ID when you reach the age of 60 is the Senior Citizen ID card. The Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) is responsible for the card issuance. Innumerable privileges and benefits await the owner of this card. Take note! The government approves it.
Qualifications for a Senior Citizen ID Card
An individual must possess the following to take advantage of the senior citizen discount.
- 60 years old and above
- A bonafide resident of the Philippines
- Proof of Filipino citizenship and 6-month stay in the Philippines (for dual citizenship)
Requirements for the Senior Citizen ID Card Philippines
The three basic requirements are:
- Birth Certificate
- Valid government-issued ID
- One (1) 1×1 photo (recent)
Steps to get the Senior Citizen ID Card
Follow these steps to secure an ID card at the end of the day:
Step 1:
Visit the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA).
Step 2.
Bring all the requirements with you.
Step 3.
Fill out the application form correctly.
Step 4.
Affix your signature as instructed by the person-in-charge.
Step 5.
Wait for the ID card release.
Isn’t that easy? Before you knew about it, you had a senior citizen ID card on hand. Make sure to laminate it.
You can bring someone to accompany you. They come in handy especially when you fill-up the application forms.
What is the Government Assistance offered for Senior Citizens?
Government agencies reward senior citizens. They acknowledge that senior citizens are vital to the country’s nation-building.
Compensation is given through the DSWD or SSS.
Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Program: Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens
The elderly who belong to the indigent group receive a monthly pension. It comes from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The amount is around Php 500 per month or Php 6,000 a year.
Qualifications for SPISC
A qualified individual must possess the following:
- At least 60 years old
- No regular income
- No pension from SSS or GSIS
Steps to apply for SPISC
Step 1.
Visit either the OSCA or City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
Step 2.
Submit the Senior Citizen ID and Certificate of Indigency (from CSWDO).
Step 3.
Wait for approval.
Once approved, indigent senior citizens can receive monthly support from the DSWD.
Social Security System (SSS) Pension
SSS Members are entitled to a retirement pension. They should have paid at least 120 monthly contributions to the SSS before the retirement semester.
Failed to pay the 120 monthly contributions? The elderly are entitled to a lump sum amount. What does it mean?
The pension amount is based on the person’s contribution and credited years of service. So, if you have successfully paid the 120 months, you have a higher pension amount. But if not, you can still get your pension. Pay the lump sum first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oh no! I lost my Senior Citizen ID Card. What to do?
You can still get a new one. However, steps and procedures may differ in each town. Seek assistance from your local government representative. Drop by the city hall.
Follow these steps to request an ID card replacement.
Step 1.
Report the Senior Citizen ID Card as lost. File a police blotter at the police station near you.
Step 2.
Pay the Affidavit of Loss fee. No worries. It usually costs Php 100. But it depends on your town.
Step 3.
Get the Affidavit signed by the Mayor. Another Php 100 is charged (depending on your locale).
Step 4.
Submit all the documents to the social welfare desk. Your replacement request will be processed.
Step 5.
Return at the date of the ID card release. Make sure you bring the claim stub.
Simple and easy 5 steps. You’ll get your brand new Senior Citizen ID Card, grocery, and medicine booklets in no time. Always bring it with you wherever you go. Privileges are open for seniors like you. Most importantly, don’t lose your card again.
How much is a Senior Citizen ID Card?
Senior Citizen ID Card is free. There are no fees to pay.
Advise your senior parents and friends to get one immediately.
How long is the Senior Citizen ID Card Valid?
The ID card is valid from the time you get it from the assisting officials. It is valid as long as you live.
What are you waiting for? Help out your senior parent to get one.
How long does it take to have the Senior Citizen ID Card?
The OSCA will process and grant your application. It has a same-day card release. It only takes 10-15 minutes to complete the process.
Come with your senior parents and assist them with the process. It won’t consume much of your time.
Can I get a Senior Citizen Discount on Food Delivery?
Yes, you can. Many have tried it. Just inform the fast-food chain that you’ll avail of the senior discount. Simply provide the ID number and pay less than you should. Make sure that you check the receipt upon the order’s arrival.
Can my Children Order Food with Senior Citizen Discount?
Definitely! Sit back and relax while you wait for your food on the table. Make sure you are visible in the eyes of the cashier. Get the privileges and be served by your children as you grow old.
Being a senior citizen is not a joke. They’ve been through a lot. Build a strong family you have. Contributed to the country’s growth. Let us show our love and care to them. Make sure they enjoy the perks of being elderly. Guide them with the right use of their privileges.
Also, consider that you’ll be in their shoes one day. So why not help them instead of leaving them behind right?
Want to know more information about the government’s mandatory benefits? Cash Mart can help you out! Just visit Cash Mart‘s newsroom, and you’re free to explore!
