DAVAO CITY – For many senior citizens, retirement does not mean stepping away from life’s responsibilities. Some continue to seek ways to remain productive, while others long for additional income to support their families. In Davao City, this desire is being met with a groundbreaking initiative that is giving senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) new opportunities to rejoin the workforce.
The City Government of Davao recently signed memorandums of agreement (MOA) with two of the country’s largest fast food giants—Golden Arches Development Corporation, the master franchisee of McDonald’s Philippines, and the Jollibee Group—to formally integrate seniors and PWDs into their workforce.
The first signing with McDonald’s on September 9 committed to at least 110 job openings for able senior citizens. Just two days later, on September 11, the city secured another partnership with the Jollibee Group, which pledged 87 positions for both senior citizens and PWDs.
These agreements breathe life into the city’s Senior Citizens Job Opportunity Ordinance, authored by Councilor Diosdado Mahipus Jr., which aims to ensure that seniors who are still capable and willing to work are given a fair shot at employment.
A Government’s Promise to Its People
Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte shared that the idea stemmed directly from the voices of the city’s elderly.
“Every time I visit the 182 barangays, I meet senior citizens who tell me that if they had the chance to work, they would definitely do so,” Duterte said. He added that for many seniors, employment is not just about income, but about dignity and fulfillment.
Grateful for the support of McDonald’s and Jollibee, Duterte said the initiative represents more than just a livelihood program:
“This is a big help to our senior citizens and PWDs because the government’s role is to take care of our people, especially the marginalized sector.”
Inclusive by Design
The Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) head, Lorenzo Borja, clarified that the program is open to “abled” seniors—those still physically capable and qualified to perform tasks, regardless of age.
“Even if you are beyond 70 years old, as long as you can still carry out your duties, you may avail of this program,” Borja explained.
Priority will be given to seniors and PWDs without a steady income. Applicants will be assessed by the Department of Labor and Employment Region XI (DOLE-XI) and the city’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO-Davao) to ensure proper matching of skills and opportunities.
Building a Culture of Inclusion
The signing ceremonies, attended by city officials and corporate representatives, signaled the beginning of a partnership that city leaders hope will inspire more businesses to open their doors.
With more than 190 job slots created in just one week, Davao City is making a strong statement: employment should not be bound by age or disability.
As Duterte expressed, the challenge now is for more companies to follow suit. “We hope that other establishments will also provide equal opportunities for Dabawenyos,” he said.
For senior citizens and PWDs who have long been waiting for such a chance, these partnerships are more than just job offers—they are a recognition of their continued value in society.