The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to promote the well-being, inclusion and empowerment of senior citizens through tourism.
“This strategic partnership will expand DOT’s initiatives for inclusivity,” said DOT Secretary Christina Frasco.
“Tourism has always been a source of national pride and progress, with senior citizens playing a vital role. From my experience as Mayor of Liloan, I’ve seen firsthand their sacrifices and potential,” she said.
The DOT and NCSC will collaborate on initiatives such as developing elderly-friendly infrastructure, barrier-free tourism, digital literacy programs, artisan workshops, wellness activities, homestay programs, culinary tourism and retirement villages.
“We want visitors, local and international, to see how our seniors are respected and valued in the Philippines,” said NCSC officer-in-charge Mary Jean Loreche.
“Partnering with the ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign allows us to showcase this commitment,” she said.
The collaboration is anchored in the 2025 General Appropriations Act, which requires government agencies to address senior citizen and PWD (persons with disabilities) concerns.
It is also supported by the National Commission of Senior Citizens Act (RA 11350) and the Tourism Act of 2009 (RA 9593), which mandates the DOT to lead inclusive tourism development.
Under the MOU, a project steering committee and technical working group will oversee nationwide initiatives promoting active aging and sustainable livelihoods for seniors in tourism.
Both agencies will fund their respective responsibilities, subject to resource availability and government regulations.
Current DOT senior-focused programs include the annual “EngAge” for retiring personnel, Barrier-Free Tourism for PWDs and elderly travelers, and regional wellness, heritage, pilgrimage, farm and creative tourism activities.
