Three government agencies have initiated public consultations regarding proposed revisions on discounts on basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Energy (DOE) recently drafted a Joint Administrative Order (JAO) in response to discussions held in the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee.
Among the proposed changes is an increase in the special discount on BNPCs from P65 to P125 per week (P500 per month), subject to review every five years.
DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual emphasized the draft JAO’s aim to reinforce the rights of SCs and PWDs, including provisions allowing for discounts on online purchases, while also outlining circumstances under which discounts may be suspended.
“However, the discounts will be suspended during automatic price control and price ceiling implementations, and registered Barangay Micro Business Establishments (BMBEs) are exempt from providing them,” Pascual added.
To gather feedback on the proposed revisions, the DTI, through the Consumer Policy and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB), collaborated with the DA, DOE, and Bureau of Internal Revenue and conducted public consultations from March 11 to 12.
These consultations engaged government agencies, consumer organizations, businesses, and affected individuals. Participants expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts, while retailers provided valuable feedback, particularly on the tax implications of the proposed discounts.
The DTI, DA, and DOE have committed to considering all input received during the consultations as they finalize the draft JAO. The revisions aim to enhance support for the elderly and PWDs in accessing essential goods while ensuring the sustainability of businesses affected by the discounts.