NCSC Seeks DPWH’s Support in Standardizing Elderly-Friendly Facilities

In light of the recent establishments of the Senior Citizens Community Care Centers (SC3Cs), Dr. Mary Jean Loreche, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), convened a meeting with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on 23 June 2025. The meeting aims to collaborate and consult DPWH on the proposed standard designs for SC3Cs, residential care facilities, and retirement villages for the elderly Filipinos.

Dr. Loreche emphasized the importance of including these facilities within the priority infrastructure projects of the DPWH. She highlighted the necessity for the creation of more senior-friendly amenities throughout local government units and municipalities, which aligns with the DPWH's mandate to oversee national infrastructure, including social facilities. 

Ms. Rosemarie B. Del Rosario, Division Chief of the Environmental and Social Safeguards Division (ESSD) of DPWH, expressed her support for collaborative efforts with the NCSC and acknowledged the need for standardized design initiatives for facilities catering to senior citizens.

Moreover, Ms. Del Rosario advocated for the incorporation of SC3Cs into DPWH’s flagship social infrastructure priorities, which already allocate budgetary resources for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and other vulnerable demographics. 

Following the formal submission of a letter to the office of the DPWH, a strategic framework will be established, leading to the formation of a joint NCSC-DPWH Technical Working Group (TWG). 

This group will provide essential technical guidance regarding design and construction, with the objective of integrating these initiatives into local government unit (LGU) development plans, thereby promoting unified and standardized infrastructure programs. The primary focus will be on establishing senior-friendly facilities in municipalities classified as 3rd, 4th, and 5th class, alongside a commitment to support provinces with substantial senior populations. 

To formalize this collaboration, the NCSC and DPWH will establish a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) following a series of exploratory meetings. 

The NCSC remains dedicated not only to the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing the well-being of seniors but also to facilitate funding solutions and fostering collaborations with national and local agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders.