Are you senior citizen – friendly? The award may be right for you!

The DSWD Field Office Eight and the Regional Federation of Senior Citizen Association of Region Eight recently launched a regionwide competition for cities, municipalities, business establishments who have a heart that cares for the elderly citizens. The actvity, which was held at the Superdome in Ormoc City, was hosted by the Leyte Federation, under president Teresa Montubig, concurrently the regional federation president.

The Regional Search for the Senior Citizen – Friendly City/Municipality and Business establishment serves as an incentive to the city, municipality, and business establishment which best meets the minimum requirements of said competition.

Ben Calzado, the DSWD focal person for senior citizens in the region, states that for local government units, what are taken into consideration are its implementation of Section 29-30 of Government Appropriations Act on 1% Budget intended for Senior Citizens; a Local Development and Investment Plan for Senior Citizens (Integrated in the Local Development Plan for CY 2012), Local Ordinances/Resolutions Supporting Senior Citizens Rights & Concerns, implementation of specific programs, services and projects for senior citizens (photo documentation), a Data Bank System on Senior Citizens, among others.

Meanwhile, for a business estsablishment to win the awards, it must have compliance of the requiremnets based on BP 344, known as the “Accessibilty Law” or Special Features for Senior Citizens; granting of privileges based on Senior Citizens Law (RA 9257 & 9994); establishment of a Senior Citizens Complaint Desk; installation of an Express Lane; and that no complaint could have been filed against the establishment.

DSWD Field Office Eight Director Leticia Diokno, on the other hand, appeal to everyone to give full support for the improvement of the total well-being of the elderly, and for their full participation in society. She emphasized that not only the public sector but the private sector as well, plays a vital role.

Submission of entry forms will be announced later.