Living with Dignity and Purpose: 2025 Elderly Filipino Week Unites Generations Nationwide

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) successfully launched the annual celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week (EFW) across the country through its regional offices on 01 October 2025, with the theme “Embracing Age: Living a Life with Dignity and Purpose.”

This celebration honors the contributions of Filipino senior citizens, advocates for intergenerational relationships, and promotes the active participation of older adults in inclusive, age-friendly programs.

Recognizing the enduring legacies of over 9 million senior citizens in the Philippines (PSA, 2020) and the steadily growing aging population, the NCSC continues to promote and engage in purposeful and inclusive activities that support senior citizens’ well-being.

In total, over 6,000 senior citizens participated in the nationwide kickoff celebration, held simultaneously across 16 regions with support from various partner agencies, local government units, and organizations.

To start the festivity in Metro Manila, the NCSC - National Capital Region and Senior Citizens' Action for Development and Nation-Building (SECADNA) Division hosted an event at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, where 612 senior citizens from 13 cities enjoyed a Zumba session, wellness booths, and a lecture on Alzheimer’s disease.

Other regions also held their own meaningful celebrations, including caravans of services, clean-up drives, Thanksgiving masses, medical check-ups, legal consultations, and more.

Commissioner Ricardo Rainer G. Cruz III expressed heartfelt gratitude for the continued support of LGUs, civil society partners, and corporate allies such as SM Cares, who generously opened their spaces to celebrate the lives and contributions of the elderly.

Commissioners Enriqueta R. Rodeles, Edwin G. Espejo, and Dr. Ida Yap-Patron likewise expressed their support to the EFW. NCSC Commissioners celebrated in their respective regions from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

As part of the observance of this year's celebration, there are more activities prepared for senior citizens, such as the Expanded Centenarians Cash Gift Distribution, skills training and development, seminars, sportsfest, and other entertainment activities.

The Elderly Filipino Week (EFW) is celebrated annually pursuant to Proclamation No. 470, signed by former President Fidel V. Ramos on 26 September 1994. The EFW celebration runs from October 1–7 of every year as a national event to recognize the importance and contributions of Filipino senior citizens. ■