Pavia rolls out free movie program for seniors

ILOILO CITY — Senior citizens in Pavia, Iloilo welcomed the rollout of the municipality’s “Libre Sine” program, which grants free access to movie screenings every month under a local ordinance aimed at honoring and engaging elderly residents.

The initiative is anchored on Municipal Ordinance No. 2024-46, principally authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Jo Jan Paul Peñol and approved by the Pavia Municipal Council. It officially began on 23 February 2025 following the signing of a memorandum of agreement between Mayor Luigi Gorriceta and Robinsons Land Corp., securing the venue and resources for the program.

Under the ordinance, senior citizens are entitled to free movie admission every Tuesday, limited to the first screening of the day and up to four screenings per month. Each session can accommodate 50 seniors on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Office of Senior Citizens Affairs, led by Judy Hollero, is distributing free movie booklets to eligible residents. The booklets serve as both a scheduling guide and proof of eligibility to help manage attendance and prevent overcrowding.

Mayor Gorriceta said the program offers more than just entertainment, providing seniors with opportunities for recreation and social interaction.

For many elderly residents, Libre Sine offers a welcome break from daily routines. Beneficiaries expressed excitement not only about watching films but also about reconnecting with friends and participating in community activities.

Councilor Peñol said the ordinance reflects the town’s commitment to supporting its senior population.

“Our seniors deserve opportunities to enjoy life, stay engaged, and feel valued. Libre Sine is just one way we can show our appreciation,” he said in a Facebook post.

Local officials, in partnership with Robinsons Land Corp., aim to sustain the program long-term and are exploring the possibility of expanding the number of screenings or venues to reach more senior citizens.

The launch underscores the municipality’s efforts to prioritize senior welfare by combining recreation with social inclusivity.