In a landmark collaboration set to redefine inclusive tourism and empower the nation’s elderly population, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) on Wednesday signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This pivotal agreement formalizes a shared commitment to promote the well-being, inclusion, and active participation of senior citizens in the country’s vibrant tourism landscape.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and NCSC Officer-in-Charge and Commission Member IV Dr. Mary Jean P. Loreche led the ceremonial signing, with DOT Undersecretary Maria Rica C. Bueno and NCSC Acting Executive Director Emmanuel E. Daez serving as witnesses.
The partnership underscores both agencies’ dedication to creating a more accessible and engaging tourism experience for senior citizens. Under this comprehensive agreement, the DOT and NCSC will collaborate on a wide array of initiatives, including:
- Development of elderly-friendly tourism infrastructure: Ensuring physical spaces are accessible and comfortable for seniors.
- Promotion of barrier-free tourism: Eliminating obstacles to travel and participation for the elderly.
- Enhancement of digital literacy and access to online tourism platforms: Bridging the digital divide to enable seniors to explore and engage with tourism opportunities.
- Conduct of senior artisan workshops and local product markets: Fostering economic empowerment and celebrating the talents of senior citizens through tourism-linked crafts and products.
- Tourism-linked wellness programs: Promoting healthy and active lifestyles for seniors through specialized tourism offerings.
- Establishment of homestay programs for seniors: Creating unique and community-focused travel experiences.
- Promotion of culinary arts tourism: Showcasing the rich Filipino culinary heritage and involving seniors in its promotion.
- Development of retirement villages and other age-appropriate tourism services: Catering to the specific needs and desires of the elderly population.
To ensure seamless implementation and nationwide reach of these vital initiatives, a Joint Technical Working Group and Steering Committee will be formed.
The signing ceremony was graced by Commissioners Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, Edwin Espejo, Enriqueta Rodeles, and Ida Yap-Patron of the NCSC, as well as several DOT officials, including Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, Assistant Secretary Czarina Zara-Loyola, Director Glen Albert Ocampo, and senior citizen employees of the Department.
This landmark MOU marks a significant step forward in the Philippines’ commitment to fostering a truly inclusive society, recognizing the invaluable contributions and potential of its senior citizens within the dynamic tourism sector.
