ABLE and willing senior citizens may soon benefit from a new livelihood initiative that aims to reintegrate older persons into the workforce, starting with employment opportunities at the Cebu Provincial Capitol and the governor’s extension office in Balamban.
Jocelyn Tabo-tabo, regional director of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), said the program is part of a nationwide push to provide meaningful work for healthy and capable senior citizens, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to empower the elderly and encourage continued productivity in later life.
“During our courtesy visit, Governor Pamela Baricuatro promised that when she opens her extension office in Balamban, a percentage of the employees there will be senior citizens. And also in Capitol, there will be senior citizens nga mag apply,” said Tabo-tabo in a press conference on Friday, August 1, 2025.
This initiative forms part of a broader program anchored Marcos’ advocacy among older Filipinos allowing them to continue contributing to society if they remain healthy, capable, and willing to work.
The program, spearheaded by the NCSC, in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda), aims to provide training in areas such as tour guiding, housekeeping, and other light services.
According to Dr. Mary Jean Loreche, chairperson and CEO of the NCSC, they are working closely with the tourism sector to roll out training programs soon.
She also mentioned that a key meeting with hotel and resort associations in Central Visayas is forthcoming.
There are approximately 800,000 registered senior citizens in Central Visayas, including 400,000 in Cebu Province.
Loreche said livelihood programs not only promote economic independence, but also support mental well-being, continuous learning, and a renewed sense of purpose among older persons.
She added that some senior citizens, such as retired teachers, may be employed on a flexible schedule, for example, working three hours per day to match their capacity and lifestyle.
Implementation of the program is expected to begin within the year, Loreche said. (CAV)