How Jollibee Group Gives Senior Citizens Opportunities to Work and Grow

At 66 and 70, two senior workers at Jollibee Group restaurants are proving that meaningful employment, personal independence, and opportunities to learn have no age limit.

Rosalinda Caparanga, 66, works at Chowking, while Manuel Moran, 70, has found a new career experience at Greenwich. Despite their different backgrounds, both have found that work can renew their sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment.

Their experiences also highlight the importance of inclusive workplaces where employees of different generations can learn from one another and contribute meaningfully.

Finding Independence and Purpose at Chowking

For Caparanga, returning to work was about more than earning money. She wanted to stay active, take on responsibilities, and maintain her independence.

Before the pandemic, she sold various items from home. She later devoted much of her time to taking her grandson to and from school. When he eventually began spending full days in class, Caparanga found herself with more free time and a renewed desire to work.

While renewing her senior citizen ID at Manila City Hall, she learned about senior citizen employment opportunities at Jollibee Group restaurants. Through the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), she discovered an opportunity to apply.

Today, she helps clear tables and keep the dining area at Chowking clean and orderly. Although she had no previous food-service experience, she learned by observing her colleagues and following their guidance.

Her job has become an important source of personal fulfillment and financial independence.

“Malaki rin po ang naitutulong. Mayroon akong mga bayarin, kaya kailangan ko rin talagang kumita. Nahihiya rin akong umasa sa mga anak ko, kaya gusto kong magtrabaho,” Caparanga said.

For Caparanga, earning her own income means managing her expenses without relying entirely on her children.

Her family initially expressed concerns about her returning to work because of her age. However, she explained that having responsibilities also gives her a reason to remain active.

She said working provides an opportunity to move around, exercise, and maintain her strength.

Beyond the financial benefits, Caparanga has also developed relationships with her coworkers and customers. She encourages other senior citizens interested in employment to inquire about opportunities through Manila City Hall and PESO.

Jollibee Group’s Inclusive Employment Opportunities

Caparanga is among the beneficiaries of Jollibee Group’s Inclusive Employment Program, which has provided employment opportunities to more than 1,000 senior citizens and persons with disabilities since its launch in 2019.

The initiative works with local government units to place qualified individuals in customer relations and other front-of-house roles across participating restaurant brands.

In 2025 alone, the program welcomed 285 senior citizens into its workforce.

The initiative forms part of Jollibee Group’s Joy for Tomorrow sustainability agenda, which promotes inclusive employment and opportunities for individuals to remain active, empowered, and valued in the workplace.

Through programs like this, older Filipinos can keep working while contributing their skills, experience, and dedication to their communities.

A New Career Experience at 70

For Manuel Moran, returning to work after retirement was an opportunity to explore something different.

The 70-year-old retired overseas Filipino worker previously spent years working abroad in accounting, operations, and logistics. After retiring, he wanted a meaningful way to spend his time and keep contributing to society.

Moran initially hoped to become a tourist guide through a senior citizen employment initiative in Manila. Instead, Greenwich offered him a job.

Food service was unfamiliar territory for him, and he initially questioned whether he could handle the job’s demands.

However, he decided to embrace the challenge.

His new responsibilities required him to stay attentive, maintain cleanliness, and properly handle food-service equipment and materials. Rather than allowing his lack of experience to discourage him, Moran focused on learning and proving his capabilities.

“Sabi ko sa sarili ko, I have to prove myself. Ayokong maging liability; gusto kong maging asset at may maitutulong talaga ako,” Moran shared.

His experience at Greenwich has allowed him to learn new skills, challenge himself, and contribute to a team while working alongside younger colleagues.

For Moran, the opportunity shows that retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of professional growth or meaningful work.

Building Connections Across Generations

One of the most rewarding aspects of working at Jollibee Group restaurants for both Caparanga and Moran is the support they receive from their younger colleagues.

Starting a new job can be challenging at any age, particularly when it involves unfamiliar responsibilities and workplace routines. However, their teammates’ encouragement and acceptance have helped both senior workers adjust.

Moran recalled how his younger coworkers welcomed him and made him feel like part of the team.

“Memorable sa akin iyong respect at acceptance nila simula nang pumasok ako rito. Iba ang samahan. Kahit mas bata sila sa akin, naramdaman ko talaga iyong support,” he said.

The experience highlights how workplaces can benefit from having employees of different ages and backgrounds.

Younger workers can share their knowledge of current workplace practices, while senior employees bring years of professional experience, practical wisdom, and valuable perspectives.

At the same time, senior employees can continue learning new skills and adapting to changing workplace environments.

For Moran, senior citizens should be recognized for their continuing abilities and contributions rather than defined by their age.

“Marami sa aming seniors ang may kakayahan at mayroon pang maiaambag. May mga experience kami na puwede pa naming ma-share. At para sa marami, hindi lang ito tungkol sa financial need; mahalaga rin na may meaningful na pagkakaabalahan,” he said.

Purpose and Opportunity at Every Age

Caparanga and Moran’s experiences show how meaningful employment can give senior citizens more than financial benefits.

For Caparanga, working at Chowking gives her independence, responsibilities, and a sense of belonging. For Moran, joining Greenwich has opened the door to new experiences, continued learning, and opportunities to share his knowledge with younger colleagues.

Their stories also reinforce the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that recognize employees’ capabilities regardless of age.

As more Filipinos reach retirement age, opportunities to stay active and engaged can support personal fulfillment, independence, and stronger community connections.

At Jollibee Group, these two senior workers’ experiences show that every generation can make meaningful contributions. Their stories remind us that learning, belonging, and purpose remain possible at any stage of life.

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