Manila: The News and Information Bureau (NIB) on Wednesday paid tribute to its elderly employees by providing free services to celebrate "Linggo ng Katandaang Filipino" (Elderly Filipino Week). A total of 29 senior citizen employees of the Bureau availed of free blood test, physical consultation, massage, and haircut held at the NIB Building inside the Malacañang compound in Manila. They were also given medical kits containing blood pressure monitor, oximeter, and glucose meter. NIB Director III Lee Ann Pattugalan, who also sits as the chairperson of the technical working group tasked to organize the activity, said it serves as the agency's expression of gratitude to its elderly employees for their tireless service. "We are having this activity to express our appreciation for the men and women of the News and Information Bureau who are already senior citizens. Though they are only a few years short of retiring, their various contributions to the efficient operation of our office are still very commendable ," Pattugalan said. She said the NIB reiterates its full support for senior citizens who are still active both in the government and private workforce. "Despite their advancement in age, they are still pillars that their families can depend on instead of being dependents of their families," Pattugalan added. The first week of October has been declared as "Linggo ng Katandaang Filipino" through Proclamation No. 470 issued by former president Fidel V. Ramos. Pursuant to the proclamation, elderly persons are entitled to adequate food, shelter, clothing and health care, and should be provided with opportunities for livelihood, family and community support and self-help. "Elderly persons should, likewise, have access to appropriate educational and training programs, either as participants or as resource providers, considering their wealth of experience and capabilities," the proclamation read. This year's Elderly Filipino Week is themed 'Senior Citizens: Building the Nation, Inspiring Generations.' Source: Philippines News Agency