Malacañang Palace is encouraging national government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to support the senior citizen activities for the annual celebration of Linggo ng Katandaang Filipino, or Elderly Filipino Week.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 34 dated September 29 and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the directive is in line with Republic Act (RA) 11350, or the “National Commission of Senior Citizen Act” that ensure the full implementation of laws, government policies, and programs for senior citizens.
“All NGAs and instrumentalities, including GOCCs (government-owned or -controlled corporations), GFIs (government financial institutions) and SUCs (state universities and colleges) are hereby directed, and all LGUs are hereby encouraged, to extend full support for and cooperation with the NCSC in the conduct of relevant activities and programs for senior citizens during the annual celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week.” the memo read.
The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) is mandated to lead the execution of activities and programs throughout the commemoration of Elderly Filipino Week.
Palace said the memo’s implementation will be funded by the current and available appropriations of concerned agencies, subject to budgeting, accounting, and auditing laws, as well as rules and regulations.
RA 11350 was declared a state policy "to support measures advancing the health and well-being of Filipino senior citizens, provide services, programs, and activities beneficial to them, and ensure a supportive and enabling environment for the elderly."
In 1994, former President Fidel Ramos signed Proclamation No. 470 that declare the first week of October every year as Linggo ng Katandaang Filipino.
The event aims to highlight the significant role of the elderly sector in nation-building and in promoting their rights and welfare.
