Davao City – In a progressive move to empower elderly citizens and persons with disabilities, the 20th Davao City Council has approved on third and final reading an ordinance that authorizes the City Mayor to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with fast food chains in the city to provide employment opportunities for senior citizens and differently-abled individuals.
The ordinance, led by principal author Councilor Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus and co-authored by Councilors Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula and Temujin B. Ocampo, is seen as a milestone in promoting inclusive and age-friendly labor policies. The initiative recognizes the capacity and potential of senior citizens and aims to keep them active and engaged members of society.
“There is a need to provide more policies and programs for our senior citizens, including the establishment of a city policy that promotes work opportunities for senior citizens and differently-abled persons,” the resolution states.
During the drafting of the ordinance, the Committee on Labor and Employment held multiple consultations and engaged with key stakeholders, including the Davao City Public Employment Services Office (PESO), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the Davao City Legal Office. Discussions revolved around the viability and benefits of re-integrating healthy and willing senior citizens into the workforce.
The ordinance is anchored on the recognition that many retirees remain physically able, mentally sharp, and possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that can still benefit the local economy and the community at large. Providing opportunities for them to work not only improves their well-being but also reinforces their dignity and self-worth.
Supporters of the ordinance also highlight its inclusive nature, as it equally benefits differently-abled persons, ensuring that workplace diversity and social equity are fostered.
By encouraging private establishments such as fast food chains to hire elderly and differently-abled employees, Davao City is setting a strong example for other local governments in the Philippines to follow—creating a society where no one is left behind.
The ordinance is expected to be a starting point for more employment initiatives in other sectors, contributing to a more inclusive and productive Davao City.