MANILA -- Malacañang has issued Memorandum Circular No. 34 directing and encouraging national government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to support senior citizen activities during the annual celebration of the Linggo ng Katandaang Filipino (Elderly Filipino Week).
In a September 29-memorandum signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the Palace ordered the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) to spearhead the conduct of activities and programs during the celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week, pursuant to its mandate under Republic Act (RA) 11350, or the “National Commission of Senior Citizen Act”, to 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’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 declared it 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.
Proclamation No. 470 (s. 1994) also declared the first week of October of every year as Linggo ng Katandaang Filipino to highlight the significant role of the elderly sector in nation-building and in promoting their rights and welfare.
The Palace said that the annual celebration would be successful with the participation of all national government agencies (NGAs) and instrumentalities, including GOCCs, GFIs, state universities and colleges and LGUs. (PND)
