By Alexandria San Juan
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has ensured the smooth transition of its programs and projects for indigent senior citizens to the newly-formed National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC).
Department of Social Welfare and Development (MANILA BULLETIN)
This came after President Rodrigo Duterte signed last month Republic Act 11350 which created the NCSC to ensure that the rights and welfare of senior citizens in the Philippines are protected.
The NCSC, which will be placed under the Office of the President, was tasked to ensure the full implementation of laws, policies, and programs of the government for senior citizens which were previously assigned to the DSWD.
The new law has mandated DSWD to transfer all its functions, programs, projects, and activities for senior citizens to the Commission.
"As the government’s focal agency for elderly concerns, the Department advocated for the passing of the law and it was among the agency’s priority legislative measures during the 17th Congress," the DSWD said in a statement on Friday.
"The DSWD believes that there should be a specialized body that is solely focused on addressing the numerous and varied concerns of the senior citizen sector," it added.
According to the DSWD, the NCSC will guarantee "sustained focus on the promotion and protection of the rights and welfare of senior citizens."
The Commission will also facilitate a more effective coordination among government agencies in the implementation and monitoring of laws for senior citizens, as well as addressing the sector's concerns, including the need for a long term care program and protection against elderly neglect and abuse.
Apart from transferring its activities for senior citizens, the DSWD pointed out that it will also provide necessary technical assistance to the Commission, especially in crafting of the Act’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR).