Underscoring their significant contributions and vital role in society even after their terms, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go filed a measure that proposes to grant additional benefits and privileges to former presidents of the Philippines.
Go, together with Senators Mark Villar, Francis Tolentino, and Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, filed Senate Bill No. 1784 or the proposed “Former Presidents Benefits Act of 2023” on 26 January.
The bill noted that former presidents are expected to “perform post-presidential duties such as meeting with foreign and local dignitaries, and attending public events and other social engagements.” For this reason, these duties often require them to employ the services of personal staff and maintain private offices.
“Kahit po ngayon na tapos na ang kanilang termino, hindi po ibig sabihin ay tapos na ang kanilang serbisyo at sakripisyo para sa bayan. Patuloy pa rin silang tumutulong sa tao, at dahil diyan, patuloy din po ang banta sa kanilang buhay,” Go noted.
At times, former presidents still need to cater to constituents, make public appearances and receive visitors given their stature. Having an office will allow them to manage such responsibilities with the help of dedicated staff and resources through this proposed measure, according to Go.
“Former presidents also often receive requests for speeches, appearances, or other engagements and a physical office can provide a centralized location for managing these activities,” he explained.
If the bill is passed into law, all former presidents shall be entitled to additional benefits and privileges, such as personal security and protection, adequate staff provided by the Office of the President, and suitable office space, among others.
“Hindi rin madali ang buhay ng isang dating pangulo. Kung ikaw ay isang public servant, hindi ka magsasawang magbigay ng serbisyo sa iyong kapwa sa iyong sariling kapasidad,” he continued.
By tradition, assigning Presidential Security Group members to guard former presidents depends on the incumbent President. Whereas, the proposed bill shall mandate this and give the former presidents the right to choose the head of their own security team.
Apart from the said benefits, the proposed bill also seeks to provide the former presidents’ immediate family security protection in order to thwart any attempt to harm them even after leaving public office.
All former presidents shall be entitled to the privileges and benefits under the proposed measure for the remainder of their lives.
Meanwhile, Go also filed a measure that shall increase pensions for Department of Foreign Affairs retirees.
SBN 1706 seeks to adjust the monthly pension and disability benefits of the said agency’s retirees, citing their immeasurable service to Filipinos worldwide, especially during critical times, disasters, security threats, and other crisis situations.
“Their patriotism, integrity, professionalism and genuine concern for the welfare of our kababayans here and abroad are sincere expressions of their devotion to the country in achieving the aspirations of the Filipino people,” the bill stated.