The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila have formalized a partnership aimed at promoting dignified, empowered, and purposeful aging among Filipino senior citizens.

NCSC Chairperson and CEO Dr. Mary Jean Loreche and UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael L. Tee led the ceremonial signing of the agreement. They were joined by National Institutes of Health (NIH) Executive Director Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-Dela Paz and NCSC Wellness, Health, Emergency Response and Benefits Division (WHERBD) Head Ms. Joyce Anne C. Pereña.

“Our partnership with UP Manila is a testament to our commitment to a whole-of-nation approach to ensure Filipino senior citizens live with dignity, purpose, and continued relevance,” said Dr. Loreche.

She also emphasized the importance of tapping into the wisdom and experiences of the elderly, while instilling empathy and preparedness in the younger generation. “This collaboration is more than a program—it is a movement toward a society that honors aging as a strength, not a burden,” she added.

Chancellor Tee echoed the sentiment, stating that the partnership is not just about building systems and policies to support aging. “It’s also about teaching the next generation that caring for the elderly is a privilege, not just a responsibility,” he said.

Under the agreement, the NCSC will lead several key initiatives, including:

Integrating elderly care into the National Service Training Program (NSTP) to build empathy and awareness among the youth;

Developing specialized training programs for barangay health workers and caregivers;

Establishing emergency preparedness programs for Senior Citizens Community Care Centers (SC3Cs); and

Promoting re-employment and volunteer opportunities for retired faculty members of state universities and colleges (SUCs).

The NCSC will also take charge of policy development, program execution, and funding support to ensure alignment with national efforts to protect the rights and welfare of senior citizens.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the number of Filipino seniors reached 9.2 million in 2020 and is expected to rise to 13 million by 2030.

This partnership marks a significant step in creating a society that values and supports its elderly—ensuring they live not just longer lives, but better ones.