Philippines Faces Aging Society; Concerns Rise Over 'Forgotten Sector' in President's Address

The Philippines is rapidly transitioning into an aging society, with the number of senior citizens (aged 60 and above) exceeding 11 million, accounting for approximately 9.6% to 10.2% of the total population. This marks a significant increase from 4.52 million in 2000, more than doubling in just over two decades. The nation is approaching the threshold of an "aging society," defined by the UN and World Bank as having 10% of its population aged 60 or above, with projections indicating the senior demographic could reach 11% by 2030 and 19 million by 2040. This demographic shift is fueled by declining birth rates, with the total fertility rate dropping to 1.7 births per woman, well below the replacement level of 2.1. Simultaneously, life expectancy is increasing due to advancements in modern medicine, healthcare access, and improved lifestyle awareness. Filipinos reaching the age of 60 can now expect to live an average of 16 to 17 more years for men and 21 more years for women. Despite this demographic trend, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) drew criticism for its lack of specific provisions addressing the welfare of senior citizens. This omission has led to disappointment and concern among the elderly population, particularly regarding the Universal Social Pension Act, specialized geriatric healthcare, and the rising costs of medical care and daily living. Many older Filipinos lack steady incomes or adequate savings, making a universal social pension crucial for basic survival. The need for institutionalizing the Geriatric Health Act and establishing dedicated national geriatric centers is becoming increasingly apparent as the population ages. The escalating prices of basic utilities, food, and essential medicines disproportionately affect retirees on fixed incomes, who often cannot re-enter the active workforce. Senior Citizens Party-list Representative Rodolfo "Ompong" Ordanes expressed the sentiment of many, likening the situation to the forgotten "anahaw" plant, once useful but now discarded. He conveyed a sense of being overlooked by the President and the government, appealing for concrete promises that would alleviate the daily concerns and meet the needs of senior citizens. Statistical data reveals that approximately 5.3 million elderly Filipinos remain active in the labor force, predominantly in vulnerable, low-earning sectors such as agriculture, wholesale/retail trade, and public transportation. Furthermore, a staggering 80% of Filipino seniors do not have formal pensions from the Social Security System (SSS) or the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), leaving them exposed to inflation and sudden medical shocks. This demographic transformation signifies a fundamental shift for the Philippines, moving away from its traditional image of a young and vibrant workforce. The nation now faces the critical challenge of adapting its policies and social structures to support its growing elderly population.