NCSC Welcomes the Appointment of Atty. Ma. Merceditas Navarro Gutierrez as its New Chairperson and CEO

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) officially welcomes Atty. Ma. Merceditas Navarro Gutierrez as its new Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer.

Appointed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Atty. Gutierrez is the third Chairperson and CEO of the Commission since its establishment in 2019. She is expected to serve the Commission until 17 September 2031.

Born in Samal, Bataan, Atty. Gutierrez began her government career in 1974 as a Presidential Legal Officer. She held several key positions for more than two decades in the Department of Justice (DOJ) and later served as Secretary under former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term.

Atty. Gutierrez was appointed Anti-Corruption Czar in 2004 and has received several awards, including the Dangal ng Samal Award, the Woman of Distinction Award from the Venture Club of the Americas and Soroptimist International, and recognition as one of the Outstanding Public Officials by the Consumers Union of the Philippines. She was also recognized as one of Asia's Influential Leaders in 2024.

She made history in 2005 as the first female Ombudsman of the Republic of the Philippines and later served as a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) in 2023.

Throughout her distinguished career, Atty. Gutierrez has championed causes related to human rights, women's and children’s protection, indigenous peoples, and anti-trafficking. She has also represented the country in numerous local and international forums focused on justice and human rights.

With a deep commitment to public service and a strong track record in governance, Atty. Gutierrez is poised to lead the Commission with integrity, grace, and competence. ■