The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will host a high-level ASEAN forum on June 3 and 4 to push for stronger policies and investments that support older persons and recognize their role in economic growth.
The ASEAN High-Level Forum on Unlocking the Silver Economy will be held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. It will bring together ASEAN member states, international development partners, academic institutions, civil society groups, non-government organizations and Philippine government agencies.
The forum is organized by the DSWD in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, and the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia.
DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the forum will focus on ways to respond to the opportunities and challenges of an ageing population in the region.
“Our focus on the silver economy is not only about responding to the needs of older persons. It is also about recognizing their continued capacity to contribute to communities and economies when the proper support systems are in place,” Dumlao said.
The silver economy refers to economic activities, services and opportunities linked to the needs and contributions of older persons.
Dumlao said the Philippines, as chair of this year’s ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community pillar, is pushing for inclusive development and people-centered policies.
“Through this forum, we hope to strengthen regional cooperation and encourage investments that will support active, dignified, and productive ageing,” she said.
The forum will discuss health, integrated care systems, social protection, lifelong learning, entrepreneurship, innovation and private sector participation in products and services for ageing populations.
UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific Dr. Aleksandar “Sasha” Bodiroza said demographic change in ASEAN should be treated not only as a challenge, but also as an opportunity.
“With the right policies and investments, it can create new markets, jobs, and services while ensuring that all older persons have the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive,” Bodiroza said.
Among the goals of the forum are expanding the participation of older persons in the economy, promoting innovation and technology for senior citizens, strengthening health and social protection systems, and encouraging regional cooperation and investments in the silver economy.
The DSWD said the initiative supports its ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community leadership theme, “RISE ASEAN,” which stands for resilient and empowered families, inclusive development, smart youth and innovation, and an environmentally sustainable and food-secure future.