A partylist congressman has sought the lifting of limits to the free vaccination privilege granted indigent seniors, saying that aside from expanding the free immunization jabs, government must include all senior citizens in the program.

Agri Partylist Rep. Wilbert Lee made the proposal as he filed House Bill No. 11055, otherwise known as the proposed Safeguarding Seniors: Free Immunization Act.

The bill proposes to amend Republic Act No. 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 that limits free vaccination to indigent elderly persons.

If passed into law, the bill will expand immunization program coverage to include all senior citizens, ensuring them access to vaccination for disease such as influenceza, pneumococcal diseases, pertussis, tetanus, diphtheria and other diseases deemed necessary by public health agencies.

Lee highlighted the importance of the bill, citing the increased vulnerability of older adults due to weakened immune systems.

“Many diseases can have severe or even fatal effects for older adults, whose immune systems often become weaker as they age. Vaccines are crucial for preventing diseases, especially if they are made free and more accessible to all senior citizens,” Lee stated.

The partylist solonemphasized that many elderly Filipinos fear illness due to the high cost of treatment and hospitalization. He noted that the proposed free vaccination initiative aligns with the goals of Republic Act 11223, or the Universal Health Care Act, which promotes free treatment and medication for all Filipinos.

“The bill aligns with the government’s broader commitment to protecting the health and well-being of the elderly, promoting their right to healthcare, and ensuring that they live healthier, longer lives,” Lee added.