Manila Government Launches Free Medical and Dental Mission for Seniors
The city government of Manila, through the Manila Health Department (MHD) and the Office for Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA), marked Elderly Filipino Week (EFW) with a substantive medical and dental outreach for senior residents. The event took place on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the Don Bosco Covered Court in Tondo, underscoring Manila’s ongoing commitment to accessible health care for its aging population.
Support for Seniors: Treatments, Groceries, and Mobility Aids
During the mission, Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and several city officials distributed 20 wheelchairs to selected beneficiaries, illustrating a tangible effort to improve mobility and independence for older adults. The provision of free meals, x-ray services, and laboratory tests added practical value to the day, making health care more reachable for seniors who might otherwise face barriers to regular checkups.
In his remarks, Domagoso emphasized the city’s philosophy of everyday care for the elderly, saying, “everyday is Elderly Filipino Week in Manila.” He highlighted ongoing and future initiatives designed to support senior citizens, including the distribution of free Ensure milk, birthday cakes, and social pension programs. The message was clear: Manila seeks to sustain a holistic approach to elder care that extends beyond episodic events.
Strengthening Local Health infrastructure
The mayor also reaffirmed the city’s commitment to strengthening health centers so seniors can walk in for medical attention without the need for prior online appointments. The promise of readily available doctors and a steady supply of medicines signals a shift toward more convenient, community-based care for older residents. These improvements align with Manila’s broader public health goals of making preventive and primary care more accessible to all residents, but with special attention to the needs of the aging population.
What EFWeek Stands For and Why it Matters
The Elderly Filipino Week (EFW) is celebrated annually under Proclamation No. 470, signed by former President Fidel V. Ramos on Sept. 26, 1994. The observance honors the invaluable contributions of senior citizens while promoting intergenerational relationships and inclusive, age-friendly programs. Manila’s medical and dental mission is part of a broader national effort to honor older adults and ensure they live with dignity, health, and active social engagement.
Key Services Delivered
- Free medical and dental consultations
- On-site x-ray and laboratory services
- Distribution of wheelchairs to improve mobility
- Free meals and social support items (e.g., Ensure milk, birthday cakes)
Looking Ahead: A City-Centered Approach to Elder Care
Manila’s leadership frames elder care as an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-off event. By investing in health center accessibility, medical staff presence, and essential goods for seniors, the city aims to create a more age-inclusive environment where older residents can thrive. The collaboration between MHD and OSCA demonstrates how government agencies can align resources to deliver practical benefits and reinforce the city’s vision of inclusive public health.
Community Voices and Participation
Senior citizens who attended the event expressed appreciation for the accessible services and the demonstrated commitment from Manila’s leadership. The day served as a reminder that health equity starts in local communities and that senior inclusion requires coordinated efforts from multiple government offices, health professionals, and volunteers.
