Philippines · Guide
What benefits do senior citizens get in the Philippines?
Filipinos aged 60+ with an OSCA ID get a 20% discount and VAT exemption on medicines, medical and dental services, public transport, restaurants and more, plus automatic PhilHealth coverage, as at 12 October 2026.
Key facts at a glance
- 20% discount plus 12% VAT exemption on qualifying purchases.
- Automatic PhilHealth coverage for all seniors.
- Minimum-wage seniors are exempt from income tax.
- Get your ID from your local OSCA.
All figures correct as at 12 October 2026, sourced from the SSS, GSIS and DSWD. Next review: 1 September 2027.
Worked example: a ₱1,120 medicine purchase
Removing VAT leaves ₱1,000.00. The 20% discount takes off ₱200.00, so you pay ₱800.00 instead of ₱1,120.00.
Frequently asked questions
How is the senior citizen discount computed?
VAT is removed first (price ÷ 1.12), then 20% is taken off the VAT-exclusive amount.
How do I get a senior citizen ID?
Apply at the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) in your city or municipality with proof of age and residence.
Are seniors covered by PhilHealth?
Yes. Under RA 10645 every senior citizen aged 60+ is automatically covered by PhilHealth, with premiums paid by the government.
Researched and fact-checked by
researches Australian retirement and social security policy full time. Not a licensed financial adviser — every figure on this page is sourced from the SSS, GSIS and DSWD or the Social Security Act of 2018 (RA 11199), RA 8291 and RA 9994 as amended by RA 11916.
Last reviewed: 12 October 2026
Figures as at: 12 October 2026
Next review: 1 September 2027
Change log: Reviewed 12 October 2026; figures checked against official sources correct as at 12 October 2026.