29/07/2026
ICYMI | NCSC Region XI and Island Garden City of Samal Launched Senior Citizens Center to Enhance Community-Based Services
ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL โ Advancing community-based programs and accessible government services for older persons, the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) Region XI, in partnership with the City Government of the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS), successfully conducted the Senior Citizens Center Kick-Off Activity on June 18, 2026, at the Senior Citizens Center, Island Garden City of Samal.
Guided by the leadership of Regional Director Cesar A. Adegue IV, PhD, CESE, the activity marked the official launch of the Senior Citizens Center, envisioned as a convergence hub where government agencies and partner institutions can deliver integrated programs and essential services tailored to the needs of senior citizens.
The program gathered local government officials, partner agencies, and senior citizens in reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting the welfare, dignity, and active participation of older persons within the community. Messages of support were delivered by City Vice Mayor Hon. Richard A. Guindolman, Regional Director Dr. Cesar A. Adegue IV, PhD, CESE, and Committee on Senior Citizens Chairperson Hon. Clavel Ann David, highlighting the importance of strengthening partnerships to bring government services closer to senior citizens.
In his inspirational message, Regional Director Adegue emphasized that Senior Citizens Centers serve as more than just physical facilitiesโthey are community spaces where older persons can access essential government services, participate in meaningful activities, and continue to actively contribute to society.
"A Senior Citizens Center is a symbol of our shared commitment to ensuring that every older person has access to programs, services, and opportunities that promote healthy, active, and dignified aging. Through collaboration, we bring government closer to our senior citizens and empower them to remain active partners in community development," Dr. Adegue said.
Following the program, participating government agencies simultaneously conducted orientations and service delivery activities, providing senior citizens with direct access to various programs and assistance. Participating agencies included the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), PhilHealth, National Nutrition Council (NNC), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Endonela.
The activity also featured the Murang Bigas Program, implemented in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA), National Food Authority (NFA), and the Food Terminal, further supporting senior citizens through access to affordable essential commodities.
The establishment of the Senior Citizens Center reflects NCSC Region XI's continuing commitment to expanding age-friendly communities through strengthened partnerships with local government units and national agencies. By creating accessible venues for integrated services, the Commission continues to advance responsive, inclusive, and community-centered programs that uphold the rights, welfare, and well-being of senior citizens throughout the region.