MANILA — In light of recent findings indicating a decrease in self-rated poverty during the first quarter of 2024, Rep. Rodolfo “Ompong” Ordanes of the Senior Citizen Party-list is urging corporations and medium-sized enterprises to collaborate with local governments in employing fit-to-work seniors.
This initiative aims to contribute to poverty and hunger reduction, particularly in densely populated urban areas with high poverty rates.
According to the Tugon ng Masa (TNM) survey conducted by OCTA Research, approximately 42% or about 11.1 million Filipino families still consider themselves poor.
In response to this pressing issue, Rep. Ordanes highlights the potential impact of hiring seniors who are physically and mentally capable of work.
The City of Manila’s seniors hiring model program serves as a promising example for other cities across the nation to emulate.
Rep. Ordanes emphasizes the multiplier effect of such initiatives, envisioning the creation of thousands of jobs for seniors if replicated nationwide.
By harnessing the skills and experience of seniors through short-term employment contracts or consultancies, Rep. Ordanes believes that not only can their daily needs be met, but their self-esteem can also be uplifted.
He stresses that many seniors in their 60s are eager and capable of contributing to the workforce, given the opportunity.
Rep. Ordanes underscored the importance of matching seniors with companies that have robust corporate social responsibility programs, advocating for a collaborative effort to address poverty and hunger while empowering the elderly workforce.
(el Amigo/ mnm)