The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed the rehabilitation of a one-story multipurpose building in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, transforming it into a fully functional Senior Citizen Center.

Located in Barangay Kapitan Pepe, the upgraded 214-square-meter facility is now equipped with a wheelchair ramp, ensuring it is accessible and comfortable for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.

DPWH Nueva Ecija 2nd OIC-District Engineer Robert Jay Panaligan shared that the enhanced facility now accommodates key organizations, including the Cabanatuan City Senior Citizens Federation Incorporated and the Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines. Each of these offices is fitted with a comfort room and air conditioning unit to improve service quality for visitors.

“The facility also houses the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA), which features two comfort rooms and additional office spaces to better serve the growing number of senior citizens in the area,” Panaligan noted.

OIC-Assistant District Engineer Leonora Cruz emphasized that this project is part of their ongoing efforts to support the elderly by improving their access to vital government services.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to enhancing the welfare of senior citizens, offering them a dedicated and convenient space for their needs,” Cruz said.

Helen Bagasao, Head of the Cabanatuan City Social Welfare and Development Office, shared that the previous office had limited space, with only one room dedicated to OSCA. This constraint made it difficult to accommodate the over 34,000 registered senior citizens in the city.

The rehabilitation was funded through the 2024 national budget under the Basic Infrastructure Program, with a total cost of P4.9 million. (PIA Region 3-Nueva Ecija)