Manila: The Department of Tourism (DOT) has accredited 15 senior citizens as tour guides in Intramuros after they completed the Tourism Legacy and Livelihood Program.

According to Philippines News Agency, these senior citizens underwent a seven-day community tour guiding seminar from September 24 to October 3, 2025, in collaboration with the Intramuros Administration. This initiative aligns with DOT's efforts towards inclusive and elderly-friendly tourism by offering senior citizens active roles in community-based tourism. The participants were required to go through interviews and a week-long training that included lectures and mock tours.

The program, facilitated in coordination with the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), has seen diverse participants. Among the newly accredited guides, four are former overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), while 68-year-old Edgardo Satira, affectionately known as 'Tatay Ed', is a retired broadcaster. Satira expressed the joy of this opportunity, noting that tourists often show appreciation by offering tips.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has engaged with the senior guides to understand their experiences and gather suggestions for enhancing the program. Frasco expressed admiration for the diverse backgrounds of the participants and emphasized their commitment to serving the country.

From 2022 to January 2026, approximately 412,640 individuals have completed the DOT's Filipino Brand of Service Excellence training program, which includes 12,786 tour guides. Frasco highlighted the importance of professional development for tour guides, stating that it ensures every visitor encounter embodies the quality, warmth, and excellence of Filipino hospitality, ultimately fostering tourism growth and creating sustainable livelihoods.