- City, McDonald’s ink MOA to employ senior citizens
THE CITY government and McDonald’s Philippines, along with the Department of Labor and Employment XI, signed the memorandum of agreement for the work opportunity program for senior citizens on Tuesday, Sept. 9.
Tess Domingo, director for Golden Arches Development Corp.’s Talent Acquisition, HR Business Partnering & People System Human Capital Group, said the food chain is committed to hiring 110 senior citizens for its 18 branches in the city starting this year.
“We are grateful for our partnership with DOLE and PESO, and hopefully we can hire more people in more cities around the country,” Domingo said, adding that the program is the first of its kind for McDonald’s in the country.
In June this year, the City Council approved the Senior Citizens Work Opportunity Ordinance, authored by 2nd District Councilor Diosdado Angelo Mahipus.
In his speech, Mahipus said the MOA embodies the spirit of collaboration between the government and the private sector in providing livelihood opportunities.
“By opening your doors to this program, you are not merely offering discounts and privileges; you are extending respect and appreciation to our elderly,” he said.
In a message delivered by Councilor Enzo Villafuerte, Acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte said the agreement recognized that many retired Davaoeños are still capable and productive.
“With this work opportunity, our dabawenyo senior citizens will be able to supplement their retirement income and maintain physical and mental health. We are optimistic they will bring positive change to the McDonald’s Davao family,” Duterte said.
Lorenzo Borja, Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs chief, said applicants can qualify for the program regardless of age of applicants (60 years old and above), provided they meet the requirements set by the employer.
Qualified senior citizens will be employed as members of the regular crew and render four-hour shifts daily for five months. Meanwhile, their salary is the same rate as a regular employee.
“You will be seeing them in our stores, welcoming you to our stores, and will also be there to help you in terms of cleanliness and customer experience,” Austin Torres, senior public affairs manager of McDonald’s, said.
The City Council is also looking to enter into a similar agreement with Jollibee and Burger King soon.
