A proposed ordinance in Cebu City, authored by Councilor Sisinio Andales, is currently under consideration by the City Council, with lawmakers advocating for enhanced private sector involvement through incentives to expand employment opportunities for senior citizens. The measure, which has been endorsed by the committee on senior citizens affairs chaired by Councilor Pastor "Jun" Alcover Jr., seeks to tackle the increasing number of elderly residents who remain capable of working but encounter limited job prospects.
Addressing Workforce Gaps and Discrimination
In its committee report, the panel highlighted that many senior citizens in Cebu City are still physically fit, experienced, and eager to contribute to the workforce. However, they often face obstacles such as age-related discrimination, a lack of structured job placement programs, and insufficient incentives for businesses to hire them. The committee emphasized that the city has a significant and growing population of senior citizens who retain valuable skills and institutional knowledge, yet opportunities for them to stay economically productive are scarce.
Legal Framework and Voluntary Participation
The proposed ordinance is grounded in national laws, including the 1987 Constitution and the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, which promote the welfare and active participation of senior citizens. It also draws support from the Local Government Code of 1991, which empowers local governments to enact measures for the public good. Participation in the program is voluntary, acknowledging that certain industries, such as heavy construction or physically demanding work, may not be suitable for elderly workers. Establishments in these sectors can be exempt if they can justify operational limitations.
Incentives for Businesses
Under the proposal, business establishments in Cebu City with at least 10 employees are encouraged to hire senior citizens, aiming for a target of at least 10 percent of their workforce where feasible. To incentivize compliance, companies that meet this target may avail themselves of a two percent deduction from their annual business taxes payable to the City Government. This incentive is in addition to benefits already provided under national law, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce costs while supporting the community.
Eligibility and Support Systems
To ensure job readiness, senior citizen applicants must be residents of Cebu City, medically and mentally fit as certified by licensed professionals, and capable of performing assigned tasks. The measure mandates the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (Osca), in coordination with the Department of Manpower Development and Placement and the Department of Labor and Employment, to establish comprehensive support systems. These include a registry of qualified senior job seekers, skills matching programs, and training initiatives to enhance employability.
Implementation and Oversight
Osca will be required to submit annual reports detailing the program's implementation and results, ensuring transparency and accountability. Businesses must maintain records to prove compliance with the ordinance. The committee asserts that this measure will help seniors stay active, reduce dependency on social services, and improve their overall quality of life. Additionally, it has recommended approving the ordinance and conducting a public hearing to gather feedback from senior citizens, businesses, and government agencies, fostering a collaborative approach to workforce development.
