Historic NCSC–IBP Partnership Expands Free Legal Aid Access for Older Filipinos Across the Country

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), establishing a nationwide legal aid referral system for older Filipinos on Monday, 29 June 2026, at the IBP Tower, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

This partnership aims to make legal assistance more accessible by directly connecting qualified older persons with 85 IBP chapters nationwide.

NCSC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Ma. Merceditas N. Gutierrez emphasized that we must protect the rights and promote the welfare of senior citizens and their families against all adversities.

“This is a resolute declaration that the dignity of our senior citizens will be vigorously defended, and that they will never have to navigate the complexities of the justice system alone,” said Atty. Gutierrez.

Highlighting the importance of IBP’s role as an indispensable ally, Atty. Gutierrez emphasized the importance of accessibility for the vulnerable sectors like the senior citizens.

“We recognize that to truly safeguard the vulnerable, the strong arm of the law must be readily accessible,” she said

Under the agreement, IBP volunteer lawyers will represent senior citizens in cases involving elder abuse, discrimination, and the enforcement of statutory benefits.

The IBP will likewise provide legal support to the NCSC in pursuing administrative and criminal actions against individuals or entities involved, such as in the production and use of fake senior citizen IDs.

The NCSC will serve as the central verifying body for IBP lawyers to confirm the authenticity of senior citizen records in pending legal matters.

Moreover, both institutions will venture into advocacy campaigns on the legal consequences of falsifying government documents, particularly senior citizen IDs, as well as on the protection of senior citizens’ rights.

Among the cases covered in this pact is the recent Quezon City incident involving a senior citizen who died after being hit by a truck while lining up for the P20/kilo rice program. The case has been referred to the IBP for legal assistance.

National President of the 27th Board of Governors Atty. Allan G. Panolong said the partnership demonstrates what institutions can achieve by working toward a shared purpose.

He noted that by combining the NCSC's mandate and IBP's commitment to public service and access to justice, both institutions underscore that the law should remain a source of protection and hope.

“Through this collaboration, we aspire to make legal assistance more accessible, empower senior citizens through legal education, and ensure that they are heard, protected, and treated with the dignity they deserve,” Atty. Panolong shared.

Witnessing the ceremony were NCSC Acting Executive Director Ana Marie C. Calapit and Head Executive Assistant Atty. Jasper Allen B. Barrientos, together with IBP Executive Vice President and Governor for Bicolandia Atty. Randall C. Tabayoyong and IBP National Director for Chapter Affairs and Overall Deputy Director for the National Center for Legal Aid Atty. Manuel Joseph B. Ibañez.

This milestone underscores the unified commitment of the NCSC and the IBP to safeguard the rights and welfare of senior citizens through accessible and responsive legal support. ■