Quezon City Third District Councilor Chuckie Antonio has vowed to push for key legislative reforms aimed at improving the welfare of senior citizens, including amending the city’s free parking ordinance and supporting changes to the national law on senior discounts.

In a meeting with the Unified Senior Citizens of District III, led by President Godelia Esguerra, Antonio also expressed support for a proposal to reduce traffic fines imposed on elderly violators.

“Many senior citizens continue to work—some as jeepney or tricycle drivers, others as family drivers—just to make ends meet. We should not burden them with hefty fines,” Antonio said. “They deserve compassion and consideration, not penalties they can barely afford.”

Antonio added that his legislative team will study the proposal thoroughly. “If we find it both reasonable and feasible, I will file an ordinance to put this into effect,” he assured.

Now on his second term, Antonio also cited loopholes in the implementation of the city’s free parking ordinances for seniors and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Current rules exempt them from paying the first three hours of parking in commercial establishments. However, operators are still allowed to set the time period covered by the basic rate, effectively limiting the benefit.

“These laws need to be reviewed to ensure parking operators are not bypassing the spirit of the ordinance,” Antonio said.

He likewise backed efforts in Congress to amend Republic Act 9994, which grants a 20-percent discount to senior citizens. The proposed amendments would extend the discount to goods and services already under promotional sales.

“All these proposals will be carefully studied and, once deemed beneficial, will be submitted to the city council for action. We owe it to our senior citizens to help make their lives easier and more dignified,” Antonio said.