ILOILO CITY – In a groundbreaking move to promote inclusivity and active aging, the Iloilo City government has introduced an internship program for senior citizens, providing them with opportunities to stay engaged, share their expertise, and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.
Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna, the program’s lead proponent, said the initiative aims to assess industries’ openness to hiring seniors and integrating them into the workforce.
“We wanted to see if businesses are willing to provide opportunities for senior citizens. That’s why we established this internship program, allowing them to work for a month in various industry sectors,” Cabaluna explained in an interview on Thursday.
The program, spearheaded by Cabaluna’s office in collaboration with the Public Employment Services Office (PESO), focuses on placing senior citizens in government offices where they can take on administrative tasks, participate in mentorship programs, and engage in community service. This initiative allows them to apply their skills while continuing to learn and grow.
Cabaluna highlighted that while retirement in the Philippines begins at 60, many seniors still wish to contribute actively to their communities.
“When seniors remain inactive, they tend to weaken. This program helps them stay engaged and purposeful,” he said.
A total of 53 applicants aged 60 to 78 underwent a skills assessment by PESO on January 31. Participants will be assigned age-appropriate tasks and must present a fit-to-work certificate. They will receive compensation based on the minimum wage law.
“This is not a dole-out program. They have to work for their compensation,” Cabaluna emphasized.
To ensure the program’s sustainability, the city is actively seeking partnerships with businesses to provide more opportunities for senior interns.
“We’re working on linking them with industry partners. During our ‘Senior Moments’ Valentine’s event, we will officially launch these partnerships. Some companies have already committed, and we’re excited about the possibilities,” he added.
Mayor Jerry Treñas underscored that the program goes beyond employment—it aims to restore a sense of purpose and belonging among Iloilo’s elderly population.
“Our senior citizens have so much to offer. This program acknowledges their valuable contributions and empowers them to remain active and involved,” Treñas said.
PESO manager Gab Umadhay noted that while the immediate goal is to introduce seniors to the workforce, the long-term vision is to create sustainable employment opportunities for them in Iloilo City.
“If we continue generating demand for senior employees, we can build a truly inclusive workforce that does not discriminate based on age,” Umadhay said.
In 2023, PESO introduced recruitment badges for senior citizens, but only a few employers participated. Umadhay hopes the internship program will encourage more businesses to recognize the value of hiring seniors and fostering a more inclusive labor market.