Manila: Mayor Honey Lacuna announced on Thursday the city government’s plan to give birthday cash gifts to senior citizens in lieu of cakes. In a statement, Lacuna said this is in response to the request of a majority of elderly residents during a series of consultations in the city. She said most senior citizens suffer from diabetes or high blood sugar and can no longer enjoy sweets.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lacuna is in discussions with Vice Mayor Yul Servo, who is the presiding officer of the City Council, to amend the existing city ordinance related to birthday gifts for seniors. Once the measure is enacted into an ordinance, it would complement the increased monthly senior citizens allowance, which her administration doubled from PHP500 to PHP1,000. This allowance increase was made possible through an ordinance signed by Lacuna last year.

Additionally, Lacuna mentioned that the city government is investigating reports that birthday cakes given to the senior citizens under the past administration were overpriced.