Philippines Highlights Holistic Elderly Care at ASEAN + ROK Conference

The Philippines, through the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), proudly joined regional leaders at the ASEAN + Republic of Korea Conference on Care and Support for Older Persons, held from June 30 to July 2, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur. Representing the country was NCSC Chairperson and CEO Dr. Mary Jean P. Loreche, who shared key programs on elderly care that reflect the nation’s commitment to upholding the dignity and welfare of its ageing population. She was joined by Belinda Beltran, Project Development Officer IV of NCSC’s Wellness and Health Division, and Eden Elisan, Planning Officer IV.

Themed “Nurturing a Shared Future: Bridging Generations, Strengthening Communities, and Innovating Care”, the event brought together senior officials, experts, and advocates from ASEAN member states and the Republic of Korea to share strategies, innovations, and policy responses to ageing societies. The conference forms part of the regional response to the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Ageing, emphasizing collective responsibility in supporting older persons across the region.

In her plenary presentation, Dr. Loreche featured the Philippines’ efforts through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Social Pension Program, which provides monthly stipends to indigent senior citizens, along with welfare assistance. However, she stressed that NCSC now leads in fostering a broader, integrated framework for senior care—one that goes beyond financial aid to address the full spectrum of older persons’ needs.

“At the heart of NCSC’s mission is holistic care—care that does not only give but also empowers,” said Dr. Loreche. “We are building a future where our seniors are not just passive recipients of assistance, but active, respected members of society.

Among the highlights of her presentation was the introduction of the Senior Citizens Community Care Center (SC3C) initiative, which seeks to create localized hubs for accessible healthcare, psychosocial support, social engagement, and intergenerational activities. Uniquely, the Philippines was the only country at the conference to present livelihood engagements for older persons—an important recognition of their continued potential to contribute to economic and community life.

Beyond the plenary halls, the NCSC also actively participated in the Conference Exhibition Booths, showcasing its programs, legislative gains, and community-driven innovations.

Malaysian host, Her Excellency Dr. Martia Heusuf, Secretary General of the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, called for a region where “no older person shall walk alone,” emphasizing that care for the elderly is “one of the most defining challenges and opportunities of our time”.

By 2035, ASEAN will be home to an estimated 127 million older persons. The Philippine delegation’s active participation in the conference reaffirmed the country’s resolve to be part of a collaborative, future-facing, and compassionate approach to ageing. ■