Iloilo City: The city government, through the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA), has launched a travel program allowing elderly residents to experience this city as tourists. Fifteen senior citizens, all officers of the Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of the Philippines-Iloilo City chapter, participated in the program’s first guided tour on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the half-day trip featured rolling tours and stopovers at key tourist sites, including Jaro Cathedral and Belfry, Molo Mansion, Molo Plaza, and Molo Church. Participant Ofelia Bataican, age 77, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that many seniors might not have the chance to explore the city independently.

Mathilde Tre±as, Special Assistant to Mayor Jerry Tre±as, highlighted that the program not only helps seniors appreciate Iloilo’s heritage but also promotes local tourism. She emphasized that many elderly residents rarely leave their homes, and this initiative provides them with something to look forward to. The itinerary focuses on heritage houses, open spaces, and churches within Iloilo City.

OSCA head Eleanor Gregorio mentioned that around 20 senior citizens will be accommodated every Thursday. Interested individuals need to register with OSCA using their senior citizen’s ID to verify their residency in the city. Gregorio urged the community to spread the word about this weekly activity.