National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC-6) Director Ann Rapunzel Ganzon has vowed to champion a “very humane” approach in leading the newly established Western Visayas office, ensuring that senior citizens receive direct, dignified, and efficient services.

Speaking ahead of her formal assumption of office, Ganzon emphasized the importance of bringing national programs closer to the grassroots.

“It’s difficult for the central office to roll out programs directly to the LGUs. Now that there will be a regional office, services can be delivered more easily and effectively,” she said.

Ganzon is set to take her oath of office in Manila on July 25, and will officially assume her post on August 1.

She shared that upon learning a regional office would be created in Western Visayas, she decided to apply—even without expecting to be selected, especially given the number of applicants.

“I never really expected the appointment from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” she said.

Now that the NCSC has a dedicated presence in the region, Ganzon believes it will be much easier to respond to the specific needs of Western Visayas’ senior citizens without depending heavily on national agencies or third-party coordination.

“Today, there is an office that they [senior citizens] can directly go to,” she said.

As she prepares to launch her agenda, Ganzon is prioritizing two flagship programs aligned with both national and local goals.

First is the Expanded Centenarian Act, which provides milestone-based cash incentives: P10,000 to seniors reaching 80, 85, 90, and 95 years old, and P100,000 for those turning 100—along with a congratulatory letter from the President.

The second is the establishment of a Senior Citizens Care Center, a one-stop hub designed for rehabilitation, livelihood training, and social activities.

“It’s a space where they can relax, socialize, and be productive,” Ganzon explained.

The center in Cabatuan, Iloilo, is only the second of its kind in the entire country.

For Ganzon, the mission is deeply personal.

“I believe it’s important to make their last years meaningful—not just for them, but also for the families and communities they’ve contributed to. We’re all growing old. That’s reality,” she said.

Prior to her appointment, Ganzon she worked for the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.IMT