FIRST DISTRICT, Pampanga – Congressman Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. wants senior citizens to have access to free glaucoma screening through House Bill No. 9640, to be known as “Free Glaucoma Screening for Senior Citizens Act,” filed on June 2, 2026.
Through HB 9640, the respective LGUs, in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), shall provide free glaucoma screenings for senior citizens in DOH-retained hospitals, LGU hospitals, rural health units, or barangay health stations, subject to standards issued by the DOH.
Access to the service shall be facilitated through the respective local offices for senior citizens affairs or through the local social welfare and development offices.
Senior citizens wishing to avail of the service shall be required to submit their proof of eligibility as Senior Citizens, as may be prescribed in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).
Lazatin has a long-standing record of pushing programs and policies for the welfare of senior citizens.
Since assuming office as Pampanga First District Representative on July 1, 2025, Lazatin has visited 701 senior citizens in Angeles City, Mabalacat City, and Magalang Municipality to personally deliver P2,000 financial assistance, five kilos of rice, and Vitamin C supplements.
During his visits, Lazatin is accompanied by a doctor, who conducts a free medical check-up for the senior citizens.
Apart from the assistance, Lazatin also provides assistance for laboratory exams, maintenance medicines, and other daily needs of the seniors as requested – such as milk, diapers, and even cosmetics.
Lazatin also filed HB 5068 on October 2, 2025, which seeks to grant a universal social pension to all Filipino senior citizens, amounting to P2,000 per month, regardless of their income, civil status, health condition, or residency.
HB 5068, to be known as the ‘Universal Social Pension for Senior Citizens Act’ if passed, shall be implemented through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in coordination with the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC).
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Land Bank of the Philippines shall also be tapped for the establishment of a database of beneficiaries and the payout mechanisms, respectively.
The amount of social pension shall be automatically adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index, to be determined by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
