“The more productive you are when you are already retired, it has something to do with the release of endorphins, which is a good feeling. Because you are still active, there is a feeling of belongingness, there is a feeling of being part of the economy. The building of our nation. It also helps in your active aging process,” says Dr. Mary Jean Loreche, chairperson and CEO of the National Commission of Senior Citizens.
For many Filipinos, retirement has long been seen as the final chapter of their working lives: a time to rest, rely on pensions, or depend on family support.
But for the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), this mindset needs to change.
NCSC chairperson and CEO Dr. Mary Jean Loreche says staying active and productive beyond retirement is not only possible but also vital for the health and well-being of older adults.
“The more productive you are when you are already retired, it has something to do with the release of endorphins,” Dr. Loreche explained on DZRH News’ Special on Saturday on August 9.
“Because you are still active, there is a feeling of belongingness, a feeling of being part of the economy and the building of our nation. It also helps in your active aging process.”
Loreche calls this concept “Edad-vantage,” the belief that age can be an advantage rather than a limitation.
She also coined the phrase “Retired but Rehired” to emphasize that seniors should continue contributing their skills, knowledge, and wisdom.
“If you don’t want to be rehired,” she joked, “retardation,” referring to the mental and physical stagnation that can come from inactivity.
The science backs her up.
Beyond endorphins, Fr. Jun Inocencio, Director of Don Bosco Technical College and a TESDA consultant, points to the role of dopamine — the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. “What gives you happiness? That’s dopamine,” he said.
For him, the years after 70 can be the most productive, precisely because life experience allows for deeper understanding, patience, and problem-solving.
Both Loreche and Inocencio agree that seniors bring more than just skills to the table; they carry decades of lived experience that can guide younger generations.
Mayroon pang silbi ang mga senior citizens. Ang dami pong ginto na pwede nating kunin. Huwag nating isantabi ang mga senior citizens. May ginto po sila.
Fr. Jun Inocencio, Director of Don Bosco Technical College and TESDA Consultant
NCSC’s programs encourage “inter-generational connectivity” — pairing seniors with the youth in mentorship and livelihood projects. “The young should learn from the richness and vastness of experience of the older adults,” Loreche stressed.
The push for purposeful activity goes hand in hand with policy advocacy. Loreche revealed that there is a pending bill in the House of Representatives for equal job opportunities for senior citizens.
The NCSC is also working with local governments to craft ordinances that mandate private companies and even government agencies to re-employ qualified seniors.
“The government cannot do it alone, neither can an individual do it alone,” she said, calling for partnerships across sectors.
For Inocencio, keeping seniors engaged is also about dignity. He likens them to the “leftover bread” gathered by Jesus to feed the hungry in the Gospel — seemingly set aside, yet still full of value.
“Huwag nating isantabi ang mga senior citizens,” he urged. “May ginto po sila.”
