HB02490: AN ACT RATIONALIZING THE DISABILITY PENSION OF VETERANS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6948, ENTITLED, “AN ACT STANDARDIZING AND UPGRADING THE BENEFITS FOR MILITARY VETERANS AND THEIR BENEFICIARIES,” AS AMENDED
House Bill No. 2490 seeks to significantly increase and rationalize the disability pension granted to Filipino veterans and their beneficiaries, as mandated by Republic Act 6948. The explanatory note highlights that the current pension rates, which range from P1,000 to P1,700, have remained unchanged since 1994 and are now considered negligible and unrealistic given the rising costs of medicine, hospitalization, and basic needs for disabled and aging veterans. The bill proposes substantial increases to these pension rates, for example, a 10-30% disability rating would see the monthly pension rise from P1,000 to P4,500, and a 91-100% disability rating would increase from P1,700 to P10,000, plus an increased allowance for spouses and minor children.
The impact and significance of this bill for the people, particularly for veterans and their families, are profound. By providing a more substantial disability pension, the bill directly addresses the financial hardships faced by those who have sacrificed for the nation's freedom. This measure is in pursuance of the constitutional mandate to provide immediate and adequate care, benefits, and assistance to war veterans, acknowledging their invaluable contributions. The increased pension aims to improve the quality of life for disabled veterans who have lost the capacity for gainful employment due to service-related injuries or sickness, ensuring they can better afford essential medical care and daily necessities, thus upholding the state's recognition and value for its defenders.