New Provincial Senior Citizens Center Turned Over to NCSC in Bacolod City

Bacolod City, June 4, 2025 — A landmark moment for the elderly sector in Negros Occidental unfolded on June 4 as the Provincial Senior Citizens Center, housed at the Cyber Center Building in Bacolod City, was officially turned over to the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC).

Dr. Mary Jean Loreche, NCSC Chairperson and CEO, personally received the symbolic key from Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose "Bong" Lacson in a simple but meaningful ceremony that highlighted the province’s commitment to its senior citizens.

The turnover was witnessed by Mr. Sammy Javines, Provincial President of the Federation of Senior Citizens, Ms. Chiqui A. Gonzales, Provincial Social Welfare Officer, and Ms. Ronisa Lutao, Focal Person for the Senior Citizens Program — all of whom play pivotal roles in safeguarding the welfare of the elderly across the province.

Designed as a dedicated space for the elderly, the Provincial Senior Citizens Center is envisioned to be a vibrant venue for activities, special programs, and community gatherings tailored to the unique needs and contributions of senior citizens. From wellness sessions and capacity-building workshops to recreational meet-ups, the center will be a hub for lifelong engagement.

Further solidifying the partnership, Governor Lacson and Chairperson Loreche also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that lays the groundwork for collaborative initiatives. This includes joint efforts in livelihood generation, skills enhancement, and platforms for meaningful social participation, particularly through the Negros Occide

ntal Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC).

Dr. Loreche emphasized that the Bacolod engagement is a “classic example of touching base with our local government units and the focal persons who are our indispensable partners in program implementation". She noted that on-ground interactions like these affirm the NCSC’s mission to serve senior citizens not just from the national level, but more so where the impact is most felt — at the grassroots.

The event marked a significant stride in inter-agency cooperation and a reaffirmation that empowering older persons is not a promise, but a shared responsibility — one that finds real expression in centers like these and in partnerships grounded in action.