The SM Group, through SM Development Corporation (SMDC), has teamed up with Globe to launch the #SeniorDigizen program, aimed at helping senior residents navigate the digital world safely and confidently. This initiative is part of SMDC’s ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community by providing elderly residents with essential digital skills.
Launched at Grass Residences in Quezon City, the program offers free, tailored learning sessions on topics such as cybersecurity, fintech apps like GCash, and telehealth services like KonsultaMD. The initiative comes in response to the growing problem of online fraud targeting seniors. According to the National Bureau of Investigation, senior citizens lost approximately P155 million to digital scams in 2023.
Jessica Bianca ‘Jica’ T. Sy, vice president and head of design, innovation, and strategy at SM Prime and SMDC, emphasized the program’s focus on empowering seniors with knowledge that can help protect them from digital threats. “Our goal is to create an immediate impact within these communities, and as we continue to grow the initiative, we plan to reach out to our neighboring communities by hosting similar events for them,” Sy said.
The program received positive feedback from participants, like 76-year-old Grass Residences resident Connie Cailles, who appreciated the patience and support of the program’s staff. “It feels like we’re being spoiled,” she said, in contrast to the sometimes impatient attitudes of her relatives when teaching her to use digital tools.
Elbert Mozo, treasurer of the Grass Residences board of trustees, praised the initiative for its high senior attendance, noting that while some are still adjusting, more seniors are likely to join future sessions.
SM Group’s broader commitment to senior citizens includes various initiatives through SM Cares, such as the Emergency Preparedness Forum for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, which has trained over 7,400 individuals since 2015. The group also honors seniors through events like the Walk for Life parade, held during Elderly Filipino Week, and provides health and wellness centers to support their well-being.
As SMDC expands the #SeniorDigizen program to other communities, it continues its mission to empower seniors and enhance their digital literacy for a safer and more connected future.
