NCSC, UP Manila Forged Alliance to Promote Purposeful Aging for Filipino Seniors

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) have joined forces to promote healthy, purposeful, and dignified aging for Filipino seniors. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on 25 July 2025, outlining a strategic partnership to design transformative programs and academic curricula centered on eldercare and active aging.

NCSC Chairperson and CEO Dr. Mary Jean Loreche and UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael L. Tee led the ceremonial signing, along with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Executive Director Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-Dela Paz and the Commission’s Wellness, Health, Emergency Response and Benefits Division (WHERBD) Head Ms. Joyce Anne C. Pereña.

“Our partnership with UP Manila is a testament to our commitment to a whole-of-nation approach to ensure Filipino senior citizens live with dignity, purpose, and continued relevance,” said Dr. Loreche. 

Dr. Loreche also emphasized harnessing the wisdom and experience of our elders while also shaping a culture of empathy and preparedness among the younger generation. The NCSC believes that this collaboration is more than a program—it is a movement toward a society that honors aging as a strength, not a burden.

Meanwhile, Chancellor Michael Tee shared that this initiative is more than developing policies and systems that promote dignified aging, but also teaching the next generation to view eldercare as a privilege and not a responsibility.

Under the agreement, key initiatives led by the NCSC include:

• Institutionalizing elderly care in the National Service Training Program (NSTP) curriculum to cultivate empathy and awareness among the youth;

• Developing micro-credential training programs for barangay health workers and caregivers;

• Establishing emergency preparedness programs for Senior Citizens Community Care Centers (SC3Cs); and

• Promoting re-employment and volunteer opportunities for retired faculty from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs).

In addition, the NCSC will spearhead policy direction, program implementation, and funding support, ensuring that all efforts align with national frameworks that safeguard the rights and welfare of senior citizens.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), over 9.2 million Filipino seniors were recorded in 2020 and projected to grow to about 13 million by 2030.  

More than just a symbol of long-term commitment, this alliance will significantly contribute to honoring those who are in their golden years and to achieve dignified, respected, and purposeful aging. ■