Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 11350)
The short title of Republic Act No. 11350 is the 'National Commission of Senior Citizens Act'.
The policy is to adopt measures to assist and appreciate senior citizens, provide beneficial services and activities, establish community-based health, rehabilitation, educational, and socioeconomic programs, promote collaboration among stakeholders, and ensure a supportive environment for the elderly.
The law creates the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), which is placed under the Office of the President.
The Commission is composed of a Chairperson and six Commissioners representing different geographical regions of the Philippines. The Chairperson is the CEO of the Commission.
They serve a term of six years, subject to reappointment by the President. Among the first appointees, terms are staggered to last 6, 4, or 2 years.
Members must be Filipino citizens and residents, at least 60 years old at appointment, of good moral character, bona fide members of senior citizens associations, hold a college degree or relevant experience, be of good health and sound mind, have no conviction of crimes involving moral turpitude, and recommended by senior citizens organizations. At least two Commissioners must be women.
1. Ensure full implementation of laws and programs for senior citizens and recommend congressional or presidential action. 2. Formulate policies for the promotion and protection of senior citizens' rights and well-being. 3. Conduct information, education, and communication campaigns on senior citizens' rights.
The Commission can determine its organizational structure, create offices and units, appoint officers and employees according to civil service laws, and must conform to the Compensation and Position Classification Act regarding remuneration.
The Executive Director is appointed by the Commission, implements policies and regulations, manages daily operations, coordinates Commission activities, must be a Career Executive Service Officer, and have at least five years of relevant experience in law, economics, commerce, management, social service, or finance.
The functions, programs, and activities of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) concerning social welfare for poor and disadvantaged senior citizens are transferred to the National Commission of Senior Citizens.
The National Coordinating and Monitoring Board is abolished by this Act.
The Act takes effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
The Commission represents the Philippines in international functions, fora, or conferences on senior citizens and establishes linkages with international senior citizen organizations and counterpart government agencies.
The Commission, after consulting the Department of Budget and Management, DSWD, DILG, Leagues of Cities and Municipalities, and other stakeholders, shall promulgate rules within 180 days from effectivity of the Act.
Section 11 of Republic Act No. 7432 and inconsistent laws, decrees, executive orders, and other issuances related to senior citizens welfare are repealed or modified accordingly.