The Philippines may soon be expected to be an aging population like Italy, Finland, or Japan, and this is probably to happen by 2035 to 2040, as the figure continues an upward trend reaching about 19 million, which is enough for the country’s population to be considered “graying.”
The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) said that the Philippines should start preparing for the “graying” of its population as the number of senior citizens increases.
In the report by the Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA), the number of senior citizens doubled in the last two decades from 4,565,560 reported in 2000, and now individuals aged 60 and above are at 9,222,672.
The PSA also reported that the population of Filipino children aged 0-15 years old likewise grew during the same period, with a total of 33,414,245 reported in 2022, while 28, 313,897 individuals were recorded in 2000.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) manifested its support for creating a commission for senior citizens that ensure the needs of elderly adults are represented in policies and affirmative action. They currently provide various programs for senior citizens, including a monthly social pension of 500, and will continue coordinating with other government offices to prepare for the “graying” of the population.
When the Philippines becomes an aging society, more older adults will need support from their families and the government.
Indeed, it is timely to have a conversation to increase awareness of issues of the elderly and start acting on ensuring a stable fiscal capacity to fund the pension systems with gender equity, a robust health care system that encourages healthy aging, and strong networks and communities of support.
Reference
RAPPLER. (2019). [OPINION] Is the Philippines ready for its ‘graying’ population? [online] Available at: https://www.rappler.com/voices/imho/239304-philippines-elderly-population/ [Accessed 27 Sep. 2022].
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