Inclusive Tourism: DOT Trains Senior Citizens as Intramuros Tour Guides

The Department of Tourism has accredited 15 senior citizens as official tour guides in Intramuros after they completed the Tourism Legacy and Livelihood Program. The training, held from September 24 to October 3, 2025, was organized in partnership with the Intramuros Administration and included lectures, interviews, and mock tours.

Edgardo Satira, 68, found renewed purpose as a DOT-accredited tour guide in Intramuros after retiring from radio. The Tourism Legacy and Livelihood Program allows senior citizens to serve as community guides | Photo courtesy: Department of Tourism

The initiative, carried out with the National Commission of Senior Citizens, is part of DOT’s push for inclusive and elderly-friendly tourism. Among the new guides are four former overseas Filipino workers and Edgardo Satira, a 68‑year‑old retired broadcaster known as “Tatay Ed.” He shared that tourists often give tips when they enjoy the experience, adding that it feels rewarding to still have opportunities to earn.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco met with the group to hear their stories and gather feedback. She praised their diverse backgrounds and highlighted their commitment to serving the country through tourism.

From 2022 to January 2026, more than 412,000 individuals have completed DOT’s Filipino Brand of Service Excellence training, including nearly 13,000 tour guides. Frasco emphasized that strengthening the skills of tour guides ensures visitors experience the warmth and quality of Filipino hospitality, which in turn supports tourism growth and sustainable livelihoods.