The NCSC has implemented core programs mandated by the Department of Welfare and Social Development to assist senior citizens with their daily needs (DSWD).
"The DSWD has transferred four important programs to us. One of these programs is the social pension for senior citizens, which pays P500 per month to recipients. Other programs include assistance for disabled older people, residential care facilities, and centenarian gifts given to people who have reached the age of 100," she explained.
During its Alaga for Senior Citizens program at SM City Davao Annex Atrium on Tuesday, November 29, NCSC collaborated with government agencies to provide free medical consultation, health risk screening, some laboratory and diagnostic tests, and free medicines from PhilHealth.
According to Dr. Ida Yap-Patron, National Commissioner IV of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), facilities that cater to the needs of senior citizens are in the works.
“Our infrastructures are not enough. But we have plans to redirect our programs to building good facilities and structures for older persons that are not only focused on taking care of those who are sick and abandoned but also to provide them a comfortable life,” she said.
“I envision a township for senior citizens with parks, malls, wellness centers, and other facilities,” she added.
She also emphasized the need for learning spaces for retired senior citizens to empower them to contribute to nation-building and development.
“Our senior citizens have to be equipped. We have to gather data about those senior citizens who have retired. We have retired farmers, plumbers, electricians, teachers, lawyers, and doctors, among others, who are not practicing their profession. We will gather them based on their expertise. We will have a pool of experts in the commission,” she said.
Recipients may avail health benefit packages in various accredited Konsulta providers located in different parts of Davao City. These include Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao Doctors Hospital, Ecoland Medical and Wellness Center Inc., Lanang Premiere Doctors Hospital Inc., and other barangay health centers.
Partner agencies include Commission on Population and Development, Department of Health Region XI, City Government of Davao, Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care, Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of the Philippines, Office for Senior Citizens Affairs-Davao City, and SM City Davao.
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