PHILIPPINES HIGHLIGHTS DIGNITY AND RIGHTS OF OLDER PERSONS AT KENYA SYMPOSIUM
14 October 2024, Nairobi – Philippine Ambassador to Kenya Marie Charlotte G. Tang emphasized the dignity and rights of older persons at a symposium held today at the United Nations Office in Nairobi, commemorating the International Day of Older Persons.
In her remarks, Ambassador Tang recognized the global demographic shift where the ageing population is projected to soon outnumber the youth. She highlighted key Philippine laws, policies, and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for elderly Filipinos, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to society. Among the legislations she cited was the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, which grants various privileges and extends government assistance to senior citizens in the areas of healthcare, social pension, employment, and education.
Ambassador Tang also underscored the Philippines’ active participation in various UN platforms advocating for the inclusion of older persons’ rights in key international frameworks and UN resolutions. She reaffirmed the country’s longstanding commitment to championing the adoption of a legally binding instrument on the rights of older persons.
The 2024 symposium, themed “Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons”, was organized by the Association of Former International Civil Servants (AFICS) – Kenya in collaboration with key partners, aimed at awareness and discussing issues affecting older persons in Kenya. END.
Philippine Ambassador to Kenya Marie Charlotte G. Tang shares information on Philippine laws and initiatives for senior citizens
More than 200 Kenyans who previously worked in various UN agencies participated in the symposium to discuss and gather best practices on improving the lives of elderly Kenyans across the country
