NCSC Joins DOJ Justice Summit to Advance Inclusive Justice for Senior Citizens

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) participated in the “Justice Summit: Advancing Real Justice for Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities” organized by the Department of Justice (DOJ) on 05 November 2025 at Hilton Manila, Newport World Resorts. The summit convened government agencies, legal experts, and advocates to strengthen collaboration to promote the rights and welfare of senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

In her message, NCSC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Ma. Merceditas N. Gutierrez underscored the injustices that many senior citizens still face such as financial exploitation, lack of accessible government services, bureaucratic indifference, and the emotional burden of being dismissed as “makulit” or “ulyanin” when seeking assistance. Atty. Gutierrez emphasized that true justice requires not only laws but a compassionate system supported by the judiciary, law enforcement, service institutions, and the community.

“Our seniors should not struggle for what is already guaranteed to them by law,” Atty. Gutierrez noted, calling for stronger inter-agency cooperation to ensure dignity, responsiveness, and respect in public service.

Atty. Gutierrez further underscored the need for stronger cooperation among institutions to ensure that justice and social protection are accessible to all older persons.

“Our commitment is clear—we will be your watchdog, partner, critic, and advocate. We will use our mandate to educate, empower, and ensure that systems meant to protect our seniors truly work for them,” Atty. Gutierrez added.

NCSC Acting Executive Director Ana Marie C. Calapit highlighted the Commission’s ongoing programs and advocacy pillars centered on empowerment, protection, and meaningful participation of senior citizens in social development. She reiterated that the welfare of senior citizens remains central to the NCSC’s mandate.

The summit enabled stakeholders to share insights and strategies to strengthen existing mechanisms protecting senior citizens from abuse, exploitation, and discrimination. The NCSC reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the DOJ, judiciary, and civil society in advancing inclusive and equitable justice.

This joint effort of the NCSC and DOJ underscores a shared commitment to justice, respect, and dignity to ensure that every senior citizen and persons with disabilities live life with security, compassion, and equity. ■