MANILA, Philippines—Senior citizens in the Philippines continue to face age-based discrimination when seeking employment, according to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

CHR Commissioner Beda Epres said that age-based discrimination remains one of the most pressing issues raised by elderly Filipinos in dialogues facilitated by the commission.

“Dahil po sila ay matatanda na nga, minsan ay nadi-discriminate na sila pagdating sa employment,” Epres said in a Malacañang public briefing on Tuesday.

The CHR holds regular consultations with senior citizens and civil society groups, at least four times a year, to discuss their concerns. One of the key grievances repeatedly raised is the limited employment opportunities for older individuals, despite their willingness and capability to work.

Beyond employment discrimination, the CHR also noted other major concerns affecting the elderly, including inadequate social security for those without pensions, restricted access to healthcare—especially in far-flung areas—and exclusion from decision-making processes on policies that affect them.

“Hindi na po sila nakakasama or nai-involve doon sa decision-making processes patungkol sa kung ano iyong kanilang totoong kailangan,” Epres said, emphasizing that policies may not always align with the actual needs of the elderly.

Additionally, cases of violence, neglect, and abuse against senior citizens often go unreported, as the perpetrators are sometimes family members.

The CHR has been actively pushing for the recognition of older persons as rights holders rather than mere recipients of charity. The commission also participates in international discussions advocating for an International Convention on the Rights of Older Persons.

Meanwhile, the CHR continues to monitor the implementation of the Philippine Plan of Action for Senior Citizens, which was drafted by the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC). While the CHR was not involved in its formulation, it remains committed to ensuring that the plan translates into tangible benefits for the elderly.

Epres said the CHR maintains an open line of communication with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units to address complaints related to senior citizens’ benefits and welfare.

The commission is also closely watching the progress of pending bills in Congress, such as the Elderly Act, and is advocating for a human rights-based approach in crafting laws that directly affect older persons.