The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Carmen formally inaugurated the Senior Citizens Community Care Center (SC3C) — the first of its kind in the Caraga Region — in a landmark event that drew praise and support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga.
The initiative, led by the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and LGU Carmen, underscores a strong commitment to promoting the welfare of senior citizens through localized and institutionalized care. The SC3C will serve as a dedicated space for the holistic care, protection, and empowerment of the elderly.
In her message, DSWD Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga hailed the milestone and emphasized the Department’s solidarity with the LGU and NCSC in advancing elderly welfare.
“Isang karangalan para sa DSWD Field Office Caraga ang maging bahagi ng makasaysayang okasyong ito. This is more than just the unveiling of a structure — it is a symbol of our collective respect, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to those who have dedicated their lives to building our families, communities, and this nation,” Dollaga said.
She reiterated DSWD’s view of senior citizens as “leaders, caregivers, and mentors — the very foundation of our society,” and assured that the Field Office will continue to support efforts to strengthen elderly services and programs.
Present during the ceremony were Carmen Mayor Hon. Nestor Valeroso, Vice Mayor Hon. Jane Plaza, NCSC Chairperson and CEO Dr. Mary Jean Loreche, and Commissioner-in-Charge for Davao and Caraga Regions Dr. Ida Yap-Partron. Representatives from partner agencies under the Regional Advisory Body on Senior Citizens (RAB-SC) were likewise in attendance.
Part of the activity was the provision of frontline services from RAB-SC member agencies. DSWD Caraga contributed by distributing information, education, and communication (IEC) materials on key programs such as the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SocPen) and the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), further expanding awareness and access to available social welfare services for the elderly.