In a heartfelt tribute to the invaluable contributions of senior citizens, SM Cares, in collaboration with the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the SM Super Grannies Club, hosted a series of engaging activities to celebrate Elderly Filipino Week 2024. The event took place on 01 October 2024 at the Mall of Asia Music Hall, attracting senior citizens from across the region.
The day kicked off with a variety of interactive sessions and wellness programs specifically designed to foster a sense of community and connection among attendees. Highlighting the morning activities was a mass held at the Shrine of Jesus the Way, the Truth, and the Life, followed by the spirited Walk for Life parade. Participants enjoyed a Zumba session that got everyone moving, and they were serenaded by Filipino balladeer Darius Razon, known as the 70’s Jukebox King, whose enchanting voice added to the event’s festive atmosphere.
Another significant component of the celebrations was the Talakayan Forum, co-organized with the Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of the Philippines (FSCAP) at the SM North EDSA Skydome. This forum served as a platform for senior citizens, local government representatives, and various stakeholders to address pressing issues concerning the elderly. The discussions focused on promoting inclusivity, senior welfare, and the critical role of the elderly in nation-building.
The Talakayan Forum was designed as an open dialogue to empower senior citizens and ensure their voices resonate in community and national development. It emphasized the invaluable contributions of the elderly to society while fostering stronger partnerships between local government units, senior citizen organizations, and the private sector.
These initiatives align with SM Cares’ mission to promote inclusivity and create platforms for significant societal discussions. The program is part of SM Cares’ broader commitment to supporting senior citizens, alongside its initiatives for persons with disabilities, women and breastfeeding mothers, children and youth, and environmental sustainability.
For more information about SM Cares and its various programs, please visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.