BREAKING BARRIERS: INVESTIGATING THE FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE EFFEC-TIVE INTEGRATION OF PWDS AND SENIOR CITIZEN WORKERS IN METRO MANILA’S FOOD CHAIN INDUSTRY

Objective: This paper aims to determine the effectiveness of PWDs and Senior Citizen workers in Metro Manila’s Food Establishments by assessing the various factors and barriers that affect their integration. Theoretical Framework: In this study, the major theory used is the employment continuum, which evaluates the workers, employer, and the workplace itself. This theory is used as a roadmap to ensure a successful implementation of employment. Method: This study employed a mixed-methods approach in which data from both qualitative and quantitative souces is examined, mean of grouped data, frequency and percentage distribution, and correlation matrix to assess the different relationships between the variables Results and Discussion: The study revealed that the effectiveness of workers has a positive moderate correlation to the factors and a low negative correlation to the barriers. This suggests employer options for improving employee comfort are limited. Effective integration requires clear laws and regulations. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research contribute to the fields of disability studies, aging studies, and organizational behavior by challenging stereotypes, promoting social justice, and informing evidence-based practices for inclusive workplaces. Originality/Value: This study illuminates the critical role of inclusive workplace practices and supportive policies in empowering PWDs and Senior Citizen within the food industry. By identifying key barriers and facilitators to integration, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers, employers, and advocates to implement strategies that promote the full potential of these marginzalized groups.