At their age, they are the ones who usually need proper care. But some of them, despite their age, still want to work, like 68-year-old Regina. The problem is, they often face discrimination.
“Only a few are given the chance,” says Regina Sublino, a senior citizen.
This is also the problem faced by 68-year-old Nanay Mary.
“Not all seniors are given the opportunity,” Mary Masing, also a senior citizen, added.
These are just some of the issues that the city government and the National Commission on Senior Citizens want to address.
To strengthen their call for these changes, this issue was discussed during the 10th celebration of National Elderly Week.
This is also included in Proclamation No. 470 Series of 1994, which recognizes the first week of October every year as Elderly Filipino Week.
Besides discussions on senior citizens’ benefits, other activities like senior livelihood, training, and benefits fairs will continue until the 6th of this month.
There will be tree planting, a blood donation drive, and a senior citizens job fair.
All these are part of the celebration of National Elderly Week, with the theme, “Senior Citizens – Building the Nation, Inspiring Generations.
**VANESSA BUGTONG
