University of the Philippines to Teach Elderly Care
MANILA, Philippines — The University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) is set to include elderly care in its academic curriculum as the country prepares for an aging society within the next decade. This initiative aims to promote “healthy, purposeful, and dignified care” for Filipino senior citizens through transformative programs, local sources said.
On July 25, 2025, UPM and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to develop these programs and integrate elderly care into education. The partnership focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and empathy needed to support the elderly population effectively.
Curriculum and Community Programs Focused on Elderly Care
One significant step under this collaboration is the inclusion of geriatric care in the National Service Training Program (NSTP). This move aims to nurture empathy in young Filipinos and raise awareness about the proper ways to care for the elderly. Additionally, the MOA supports the creation of micro-credential training for barangay health workers and caregivers, enhancing their skills for elderly care.
The agreement also addresses emergency preparedness for Senior Citizens Community Care Centers (SC3Cs), which offer comprehensive services such as healthcare, wellness activities, social programs, livelihood training, and access to government assistance—all centralized for senior citizens’ convenience.
Currently, six SC3Cs are operational in various communities, including Moalboal (Cebu), Cabatuan (Iloilo), Malaybalay City (Bukidnon), Kidapawan City (Cotabato), Zamboanguita (Negros Oriental), and Los Baños (Laguna).
Retired Faculty and Research Contributions
The partnership also involves retired faculty members from state universities and colleges, including UPM. These experts will be empowered to continue contributing through community service, mentoring, and sharing their research on healthy aging, evidence-based policy development, and programs that support the mobility, mental health, and well-being of seniors.
UPM Chancellor Michael Tee expressed pride in the collaboration, emphasizing the goal to redefine eldercare and foster a culture where aging is celebrated. “Through this initiative, we aim to develop policies and systems that promote dignified aging, while also teaching the next generation to view eldercare not just as a responsibility, but as a privilege,” Tee stated.
Growing Aging Population Demands Action
Data from the 2020 Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) census shows over 9.2 million Filipinos aged 60 and above, representing more than 8.5% of the population. This is an increase from 7.5% in 2015. Projections indicate that by 2030, the senior population will reach about 13 million, and between 2030 and 2035, it will rise to 14%, officially marking the Philippines as an aging society, local experts noted.
The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) called on the government to enhance social protection and improve the well-being of older Filipinos now. Unlike Western countries where elderly family members often stay in nursing homes, Filipino seniors commonly live with their children, receiving care and support at home.
Roles of UPM and NCSC in Elderly Care Programs
Under the MOA, UPM will lead program design, conduct stakeholder consultations, provide training, carry out research, and offer field exposure to students and faculty. Meanwhile, the NCSC will oversee program implementation, funding, policy guidance, and alignment with national senior citizen policies.
Preparing for Long-Term Elderly Care
Dr. Shelley dela Vega, director of the Institute of Aging at the UP National Institutes of Health, welcomed the partnership’s shared vision to support healthy, productive aging. She highlighted that the NCSC has been responsive to research and policy recommendations from the Institute.
The MOA will enable the development of more research and community service programs to address the health needs and system challenges faced by frail and retired seniors. It also aims to prepare the country for long-term care in homes, communities, and institutions.
Furthermore, the collaboration plans to encourage re-employment and meaningful work opportunities for seniors ready to join the workforce. Learning modules for professional and community workers on eldercare and healthy aging will also be developed.
For more news and updates on elderly care, visit Filipinokami.com.
