NCSC Joins UP in UPLIFT Caravan for Priority Sectors

In its mission to expand access to senior-focused programs in workplaces and communities, the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) joins the University of the Philippines as it successfully launched its program “UPLIFT: Caravan for Priority and Equity-Deserving Sectors” last December 9, 2025 at the UP Diliman Campus. This initiative brings essential government services and information directly to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents within the campus community.

Joining the panel of speakers from the National Council for Solo Parents and the National Council on Disability Affairs, the NCSC represented by Planning Officer II Ms. Renee Alexis J. Seruelas delivered a lecture on the benefits, privileges, and support mechanisms available to senior citizens under RA 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act. Seruelas emphasized the importance of the Senior Citizens Community Care Center (SC3C) as a model framework being actively advocated by the NCSC for adoption by Local Government Units to strengthen community-based support for seniors. 

During the Q&A session, participants raised concerns, including questions on the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC) currently implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Universal Social Pension which remains pending at the Senate committee level. Seruelas also emphasized that the Commission is actively supporting efforts to broaden senior citizen benefits under these programs.

The NCSC also took part in the Caravan of Services by setting up a Senior Citizen Online Registration booth, enabling seniors to register in the NCSC database and to personally address their inquiries and concerns.

In her closing remarks, Vice Chancellor for Administration Adeline A. Pacia expressed sincere appreciation and congratulations to the UP Human Resource Development Office (HRDO), led by Director Arthur A. Gonzales III, for organizing an initiative that clarified employees’ rights and entitlements under key laws, including the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, and the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities. ■