Manila Supports Seniors with Free Health Services
The city government of Manila, through the Manila Health Department (MHD) and the Office for Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA), conducted a comprehensive medical and dental mission for senior citizens in observance of Elderly Filipino Week (EFW) on Tuesday, October 7. The event took place at the Don Bosco Covered Court in Tondo and highlighted Manila’s ongoing commitment to improving health access for older residents.
Essential Services and Comfort for the Elderly
During the mission, Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and other city officials distributed 20 wheelchairs to selected beneficiaries, emphasizing mobility as a key element of senior well-being. Attendees received free meals, X-ray services, and laboratory testing, alongside screenings and consultations designed to address common geriatric health concerns. The provision of free Ensure milk, birthday cakes, and social pension highlights the city’s multi-faceted approach to sustenance, health, and social support for older adults.
Accessible Health Care at the Core
In his remarks, Mayor Domagoso underscored Manila’s philosophy that “everyday is Elderly Filipino Week in Manila.” He highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen local health centers so seniors can walk in for care without the need for online appointments. The mayor noted that health facilities now maintain adequate medicine supplies and staffed medical professionals, reinforcing a user-friendly system that prioritizes timely treatment for the elderly.
EFW: A National Moment with Local Impact
The Elderly Filipino Week (EFW) is celebrated annually under Proclamation No. 470, signed by former President Fidel Ramos on September 26, 1994. The week honors the contributions of Filipino senior citizens, advocates for stronger intergenerational ties, and promotes the active participation of older adults in inclusive, age-friendly programs. Manila’s medical and dental mission aligns with this national intent by delivering practical health services, disease prevention, and social support in a community setting.
Broader Health and Community Benefits
Participants benefited from not only medical and dental checkups but also information about preventive care and healthy aging. By integrating nutritional support with clinical services, the city supports holistic well-being for seniors. The event also serves as a platform for seniors to connect with local health professionals, volunteers, and fellow participants, reinforcing social inclusion—a key objective of age-friendly city initiatives.
What This Means for Manila’s Seniors
Manila’s ongoing health initiatives show a sustained commitment to accessible care for the city’s aging population. The combination of free medical and dental services, mobility aids, and social pensions helps reduce barriers to care while promoting dignity and independence for older adults. As the city continues to expand health center capacities and outreach programs, more seniors can benefit from timely interventions, screenings, and support networks that contribute to a higher quality of life in later years.
About Elderly Filipino Week
Elderly Filipino Week celebrates the invaluable contributions of senior citizens and fosters intergenerational cooperation. Through programs that enhance health, safety, and social engagement, the week reinforces the importance of creating inclusive, multifaceted communities that welcome older adults as active participants in civic life.
