As the Philippines faces the challenges of an aging population, a new Japanese-style elderly care facility in Pasig City was inaugurated Thursday (March 20), marking a significant step in enhancing senior care services in the country.
Developed through a collaboration between the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and INFIC Inc., a Japan-based leader in elderly care solutions, the initiative highlights the urgency of investing in high-quality, accessible care for the country’s growing elderly demographic. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the number of Filipinos aged 60 and above is projected to reach 11.6 million this year, increasing the demand for specialized care services.
The newly opened 200-square-meter Elderly Care and Day Service Facility offers comprehensive services, including home care, day care, and both short- and long-term stays. Designed with accessibility and safety in mind, the facility features step-free flooring, wheelchair-accessible washstands, and handrails in bathrooms to ensure the comfort and security of elderly residents. A team of nine trained caregivers, alongside three Japanese specialists, will provide expert care while also equipping families with essential home care techniques.
During the opening ceremony a day before the launch, JICA Philippines Chief Representative Takashi Baba emphasized the need for skilled caregivers, saying, “It has become imperative to nurture future caregivers with specialized knowledge and skills to meet these growing challenges.” This initiative is part of JICA’s Public-Private Partnership promotion scheme, which introduces Japan’s advanced elderly care practices to partner countries.
Pasig City, under the leadership of Mayor Vico Sotto, has been actively strengthening healthcare services for its aging population. The facility’s establishment aligns with broader efforts to enhance geriatric care and promote independent, dignified aging in the Philippines.
Beyond providing direct care, the facility integrates cutting-edge innovation, serving as a model for modern elderly care in the country. INFIC’s digital sensing care system, demonstrated during the inauguration, enhances independent living while reducing the burden on caregivers. INFIC selected the Philippines for its first international expansion after recognizing the country’s strong caregiver workforce and its critical role in the future of elderly care.
JICA remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote inclusive and people-centered development in the Philippines. The success of this facility is expected to pave the way for similar projects nationwide, ensuring that more Filipino seniors receive quality care and support in their later years.
