2 months ago
36
Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!
Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Visit Suniway.ph to learn
Philstar.com
January 13, 2026 | 3:28pm
Senior citizens line up for aid in this undated photo.
Walter Bollozos, File
MANILA, Philippines — The proposed Philippine Geriatric Center Act is moving closer to becoming law, with the measure gaining momentum after the period of interpellations concluded in December 2025.
Sen. Mark Villar, the bill’s principal author and co-sponsor, said the measure is now scheduled for second and third reading in the Senate, bringing it a step closer to addressing the growing need for specialized services for the country’s senior population.
“Our seniors deserve dignified and comprehensive care that responds to the realities of aging,” Villar said. “This measure is designed to improve access to geriatric services, ease the burden on families who provide care and help older Filipinos live healthier, more independent lives.”
The bill aims to establish the Philippine Geriatric Center as a national tertiary specialty hospital under the Department of Health (DOH). The facility would serve as the country’s lead institution for geriatric medicine, including patient care, research and training for healthcare professionals.
Beyond a single hospital, the proposal envisions nationwide coordination among the DOH, local government units (LGUs) and other stakeholders to expand integrated geriatric health services throughout the Philippines.
Key provisions of the bill include:
- Establishing the Philippine Geriatric Center under the DOH as the country’s premier hub for geriatric medicine, research and training;
- Strengthening nationwide geriatric services through coordination with LGUs and partner institutions;
- Boosting research and workforce development through education and training on geriatrics and age-related conditions; and
- Ensuring integrated care covering prevention, rehabilitation and multidisciplinary treatment tailored to older persons.
Villar said that the measure would help seniors access specialized medical care while reducing hospitalization-related costs for families.
He urged fellow lawmakers to support the bill’s swift passage, noting that stronger geriatric care is a long-term investment in public health and in Filipino families who care for elderly loved ones.
