Caloocan, McDo ink pact for senior job opportunities

Senior citizens in Caloocan City now have new employment opportunities thanks to a partnership between the local government and McDonald's Philippines.

At least 15 senior citizens in North and South Caloocan have begun working as fast-food crew members at select McDonald's locations.

Kim Daeam Sabay, action officer for the city's Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA), said the office has received "positive responses" to the city government's initiative.

"The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) initiated this, and we endorsed the senior citizens for their applications," Sabay said.

She added that the office received numerous applications from elderly residents after launching an information dissemination campaign.

The senior citizens are assigned as greeters and assist with basic table cleaning at select stores.

"The tasks are very light, and they receive positive feedback," Sabay said.

Sabay said the initiative is "very welcoming," especially since most senior citizens are still capable of working despite their age.

Meantime, PESO manager Violeta Gonzales said the seniors are receiving minimum wage for their four-hour shifts.

As the city government's deal with the private company gains attention from seniors, Gonzales said PESO is also connecting with other companies that have expressed interest in providing employment opportunities for older adults.

Sabay estimated that there are 135,000 senior citizens in North and South Caloocan.