NCSC Reaffirms Support for Largest-Ever Disaster Preparedness Forum for Senior Citizens and PWDs

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) reaffirmed its commitment to protecting older persons during emergencies as it joined over 4,000 participants at the largest Emergency Preparedness Forum for Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities to date, held on 20 July 2026 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

In her message, NCSC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Ma. Merceditas N. Gutierrez emphasized that the forum recognizes older persons not only as recipients of assistance but also as active contributors to disaster resilience.

"[This] reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that every older person is protected, empowered, and treated with dignity. May this activity inspire greater preparedness, resilience, and compassion, reminding us that our senior citizens are not only recipients of care but valuable partners in nation-building," Atty. Gutierrez said.

Organized by SM Cares, the forum brought together thousands of senior citizens, PWDs, barangay officials, emergency responders, students, and government representatives to strengthen disaster preparedness among vulnerable sectors.

For many participants, the forum reinforced that age is no barrier to learning life-saving skills that can help protect both their families and communities.

“Napakahalaga na maging alerto ka sa lahat ng bagay. Mahalaga rin sa aming mga senior citizens ito, lalo na kung nag-iisa ka, kasi alam mo na ang gagawin. Kahit senior na, may kakayahan kaming maprotektahan ang sarili namin,” said Asteria Cortez, 64, from Caloocan City.

“Mahalaga ito kasi napag-aaralan kung papaano ang dapat gawin tuwing may sakuna. Kailangan namin [senior citizen] 'yan at puwede naming maituturo 'yan sa kasama namin sa bahay,” shared Freddie Rillo, 79, from Pasay City.

SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Junias Eusebio thanked key partners, including the NCSC and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), for their continued collaboration in promoting inclusive disaster preparedness initiatives.

He stressed that because disasters affect everyone, collective action is essential to ensure that no one—especially senior citizens and PWDs—is left behind during emergencies.

Participants joined expert-led sessions that provided practical guidance on disaster preparedness. DOST-PAGASA Weather Services Chief Engr. Lorenzo A. Moron discussed climate trends, weather advisories, and early warning systems to help communities better prepare for emergencies.

PHIVOLCS Director Usec. Teresito C. Bacolcol followed with a discussion on earthquake preparedness, particularly in light of the potential occurrence of "The Big One."

Survival expert Dr. Ted Esguerra concluded the learning sessions with demonstrations of emergency response techniques for fires, floods, earthquakes, and other hazards, equipping participants with practical skills to protect themselves and their families.

The forum also featured the distribution of emergency preparedness kits and a one-stop government services hub, providing senior citizens and PWDs with easier access to essential public services.

With the Philippines' senior citizen population estimated at more than 11 million based on the 2020 PSA Census, initiatives such as the Emergency Preparedness Forum play an increasingly important role in ensuring that older persons are equipped and included in building more resilient communities.■