DOT Launches Senior Citizen Tour Guide Training Program in Intramuros

MANILA — The Department of Tourism (DOT) has announced plans to expand training programs that will enable senior citizens to become certified tour guides across the Philippines. This initiative commenced with the first group of senior citizens undergoing a seven-day training workshop at the Centro de Turismo Intramuros in Manila, starting September 24, 2025.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco visited the training site where 30 participants, aged between 60 and 79, are enrolled in a 56-hour course. She described the pilot program as "just the beginning" and expressed optimism about its potential to provide meaningful opportunities for senior citizens.

"This initial phase focuses on training our senior citizens as tour guides here in Intramuros," Frasco said. "Subsequent phases will expand to other key tourist destinations in the country."

Upon completion of the course, the Intramuros Administration is committed to facilitating tour guiding engagements within the historic walled city to ensure that the participants' skills are immediately put into practice.

The Community Tour Guiding Seminar for Senior Citizens was established following a Memorandum of Understanding signed on May 21 between the DOT and the National Commission of Senior Citizens. The program coincides with the observance of Tourism Month, highlighting the DOT's dedication to promoting inclusive tourism.

This initiative forms part of the DOT’s broader efforts under the Office of Special Concerns, which focuses on supporting priority sectors nationwide.

In addition to the training, Secretary Frasco distributed tour guiding kits and medical insurance packages to over 40 tour guides and kalesa drivers in Manila, further enhancing support for local tourism workers.