By Kenneth Paciente | PTV News
A surprise encounter unfolded on Friday when President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., fresh from inspecting flood mitigation works along G. Araneta Avenue in Quezon City, paused to meet a group of senior citizens gathered nearby.
What began as casual greetings quickly evolved into a mini town hall, with President Marcos Jr. inviting the elders, which he described as “living libraries of wisdom,” to share their thoughts and concerns about their daily struggles, welfare programs in their locale, and community resilience.
He linked their health concerns to his administration’s plan for the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) to host Southeast Asia’s largest dialysis center and likewise promised to relay their feedback to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Health (DOH).
Flooding and safety issues in the area also surfaced as residents recounted how seasonal floods disrupt routines and limit access to clinics. Marcos Jr. assured them that the newly rehabilitated drainage system along G. Araneta aims to ease these burdens.
Beyond infrastructure, the seniors raised psychosocial needs and hardships they endured during past typhoons.
President Marcos cited the role of the Quezon City Office for Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA) in coordinating support programs under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act, as OSCA hubs in local government units are designed to bring services closer to barangays nationwide.
Meanwhile, observers noted the spontaneity of the meeting. With no podium or prepared speech, it was a simple circle of chairs, handshakes, and dialogue—reflecting a humanized approach to governance.
As the town hall closed, senior citizens expressed gratitude. “At least narinig kami mismo ng Pangulo,” one said.
The encounter ended with light banter and photos, leaving behind dignity and reassurance that their voices matter in national discourse. (with reports from Jose Rafael Cesar C. Atencio)
-bjlc/jpv
