The recent assurance given by a San Miguel Corp. official to the House of Representatives regarding the implementation of a 20-percent discount on expressways and skyways in Metro Manila, southern Luzon, and northern Luzon is a long-awaited and positive development. This move will benefit approximately 10 million senior citizens and 1.4 million persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the country. It is high time that these vulnerable groups receive the privileges and benefits they are entitled to under the law. (Read the BusinessMirror report: “Seniors, PWDs to enjoy toll discounts soon, vows SMC,” January 24, 2024).
Speaker Ferdinand Romualdez deserves commendation for ordering the inquiry that shed light on the gaps and confusion in the implementation of laws concerning discounts and benefits for the elderly, PWDs, and solo parents. It is disheartening to hear complaints that many business establishments have not been honoring these mandated privileges. The inquiry serves as a reminder that the rights and welfare of senior citizens and PWDs should never be overlooked or neglected.
Rafael Yabut, head of SMC’s infrastructure group, expressed support for the 20-percent discount and committed to coordinating with the Toll Regulatory Board and other relevant agencies to ensure its implementation. This collaborative effort is crucial to ensure that the discount is properly granted and accessible to those who are eligible. The involvement of all stakeholders and concerned agencies is essential for an effective implementation process.
Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, proposed a mechanism to add the 20-percent discount as an equivalent amount to the cost of an expressway or skyway radio frequency identification (RFID) card or its top-up load. This innovative solution ensures that there is no loss on the part of the expressway/skyway operator while still providing the intended benefit to the senior citizens and PWDs. Salceda’s suggestion to attach the RFID sticker to the vehicle registered under the name of the eligible individuals is a practical and efficient way to verify and enforce the discount.
The inquiry also shed light on the compliance of Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific regarding discounts for senior citizens, PWDs, and students. The availability of options on their websites for eligible individuals to avail themselves of the discounts demonstrates a step in the right direction. However, it is essential that all businesses, including major malls, drugstores, supermarkets, and food and transportation service providers, comply with the laws on discounts and benefits. Any violations or non-compliance should be addressed and rectified promptly.
It is disappointing that some businesses, such as Food Panda and Grab, have been named as alleged violators. The committees’ decision to invite them for further discussions is a proactive step towards finding solutions and ensuring compliance. Similarly, Goldilocks, which failed to send a representative to the hearing, should be held accountable for limiting the 20-percent discount, and further engagement with them is necessary.
The recent acknowledgment by Starbucks of its mistake in limiting the application of the 20-percent discount is commendable. This demonstrates the importance of businesses taking responsibility for their actions and rectifying any inconsistencies in providing the entitled benefits to senior citizens and PWDs.
The collaborative efforts between the government, businesses, and relevant agencies are crucial to ensure the effective implementation of these benefits. It is imperative that all businesses adhere to the laws on discounts and benefits to guarantee that senior citizens and PWDs can access the privileges they deserve. Let this be a reminder that society must continue to work towards inclusivity and support for those who need it most.