Programmes relating to these issues includes the establishment of day centers which serve as venues for social interaction, educational and livelihood activities as well as utilization of retirees from public service who would be willing to volunteer their services and expertise. Mr. Chairman, In considering the situation of older persons, the role of the family is very central. As in other Asian societies, Philippine society places great reliance on the traditional family as the primary support system and caregiver for its elderly. This is dictated by deeply rooted Asian values, foremost of which is filial piety or respect for elders. This duty is in fact constitutionally mandated in our country and is translated into programs that provide incentives to families who support their elderly in order to ease the resource burden of the Government.
Older persons are valuable resources, though in many societies they are considered a burden.
They are an excellent medium for imparting traditional values and culture. They can be caregivers to very old people and to the young members of the family. They can be a valuable addition to the workforce especially in light of the growing trend of relatively fewer young people entering the labour market and longer life expectancies. Unfortunately, these traditional roles of the elderly and the family are gradually being eroded because of migration, urbanization and poverty. The challenge will be to modify or adopt institutions and development processes that would keep these roles from being eliminated when they are needed most.