339 seniors, 50 PWDs given jobs in Manila

More than 300 senior citizens and around 50 persons with disabilities (PWDs) landed jobs in Manila over the last few months because of arrangements with business establishments, Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said.

That was why, Domagoso said, the public should patronize restaurants and fast-food chains that employ the elderly.

“One day our bones will weaken and our hair will also become gray just like them. So let us help them in this way,’’ he said in his year-end report.

Some 339 senior citizens and 50 PWDs were employed following the signing of memorandums of agreement (MOA) in August with food establishments willing to hire members of the marginalized sector, the mayor said.The qualified residents began working for the fast-food chains in October and November.Under the MOAs, fast-food chains should employ at least two senior citizens and one PWD in each of their branches.

The establishments are also required to give a four-hour, five-day work week for the elderly, with an 8 a.m.-12 noon or 1-5 p.m. shifts, and eight-hour working days for the PWDs.

Domagoso admitted that the scheme had been inspired by labor laws in the United States, Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan.

“[We have] this extra effort for our [senior citizens] because they are the reason why we are here. Wherever we are right now, it is most likely because of their efforts during their youth,” he said.