Davao City's Senior Citizens Employment Program Gains Momentum with Second Batch Deployment
The Public Employment Service Office-Davao City (Peso-Davao City) has announced that the second batch of senior citizens has successfully commenced employment under the city's innovative Senior Citizens Work Opportunity Ordinance, starting on January 15, 2026.
Substantial Deployment and Program Structure
Shirly Duran-Sahid, labor and employment officer of Peso-Davao, confirmed during a media interview on February 23, 2026, at SM City Davao that "We have deployed already 70 senior citizens" for this second phase of the program. The employment period for this group is scheduled to conclude in April 2026, with a third batch of senior citizens poised to follow immediately afterward.
Duran-Sahid further revealed that a special job fair specifically designed for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) has been scheduled for March 26, 2026, to facilitate continued employment opportunities. This follows the successful completion of the program's inaugural batch, which saw 78 senior citizens complete their three-month employment terms.
Inclusive Employment Extends to Persons with Disabilities
In a parallel development, the program has also created meaningful employment for 21 persons with disabilities, whose five-month work terms remain ongoing. This dual focus on both senior citizens and PWDs underscores the city's comprehensive approach to inclusive employment initiatives.
Corporate Partnerships and Expansion Efforts
Currently, the primary corporate partners employing program participants include Jollibee and McDonald's Philippines. However, Peso-Davao is actively negotiating with additional major retailers, including SM and Penongs, to significantly expand employment opportunities.
Duran-Sahid emphasized the ongoing nature of these negotiations, stating in a mix of English and Cebuano that discussions continue with potential partners about hiring seniors, noting that "the first step would be the beginning of our journey." She expressed hope that more business owners would recognize that "seniors still have a purpose in society."
Political Support and Corporate Interest
Councilor Diosdado Angelo Mahipus Jr., who first proposed this initiative during a privilege speech on October 10, 2023, expressed optimism about expanding work opportunities following the program's initial success. On January 6, 2026, Mahipus noted growing corporate interest, specifically mentioning that Chowking has expressed willingness to hire senior citizens.
Mahipus has taken a hands-on approach to promoting the program, communicating directly with business owners to encourage senior citizen employment. This political advocacy complements the program's foundation in the recently approved Senior Citizens Work Opportunity Ordinance, which aims to help participants earn income, remain socially active, and feel valued within their community.
Positive Reception and Social Impact
Duran-Sahid reported overwhelmingly positive feedback from participating senior citizens, who find the employment opportunities both fulfilling and meaningful. This enthusiasm has generated significant online attention and momentum for the program, highlighting how Davao City values its elderly population's continued contributions.
The program's development has been methodical, with Mahipus reporting by July 9, 2024, that two major fast-food chains had already committed to hiring senior citizens while broader reviews of the city's employment programs continued. With Davao City's Social Welfare Operations Division estimating approximately 170,000 senior citizens in the area as of 2024, this initiative represents a substantial step toward addressing employment needs within this demographic.
