The Philippines Department of Tourism (DoT) and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) have partnered to promote a more inclusive tourism industry that supports the participation and well-being of senior citizens.
The agreement, signed on May 21, 2025, aims to encourage senior-friendly initiatives and highlight the role of older Filipinos in the tourism sector.
It outlines several areas for collaboration, including the development of age-friendly infrastructure, accessible tourism initiatives, and digital literacy programmes. Other planned activities include artisan workshops, wellness programmes, home stays, culinary tourism, and the development of retirement tourism offerings.
This initiative supports government mandates to address the needs of senior citizens, in line with national laws promoting inclusive development. A joint committee and technical group will oversee implementation, with both agencies covering their own costs, subject to available resources.
The DOT already runs senior-focused activities such as the annual EngAge programme for retiring staff, the Barrier-Free Tourism campaign, and various regional tourism offerings tailored for senior travellers. Tourist rest areas across the country also include features designed for older visitors and persons with disabilities.
Tourism secretary Christina Garcia Frasco shared that the partnership reflects the DoT’s commitment to making tourism accessible and inclusive. She noted that senior citizens have long contributed to national development and that there is significant potential for them to continue playing an active role in tourism. Drawing on her own experience working with seniors during her time as mayor, she emphasised the importance of creating opportunities not only for enjoyment, but also for participation in tourism-related livelihoods.
She said: “We are deeply grateful to the NCSC for (its) steadfast leadership and unwavering dedication to the cause of our senior citizens… may this collaboration serve as a reminder that the true strength of Philippine tourism lies not only in the beauty of our destinations but in the inclusivity of our vision and the unity of our purpose.”
