This August, the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) will launch a unique project: employing senior citizens as tour guides in Intramuros, giving a fresh yet deeply personal twist to heritage tours. Soon, visitors strolling through the cobblestone streets of Intramuros will not just be stepping into history—they’ll be hearing it firsthand from those who’ve lived through decades of change, growth, and resilience.
The program, announced by NCSC Chairperson Mary Jean Lorech, is part of a growing effort to connect tourism with community empowerment. “We’re looking at August for the launching, maybe here in Intramuros, for the tour guiding and cultural heritage sites,” Lorech shared. “And hopefully before the year ends, we will have that in hotels and resorts,” she added.
It’s not just about guiding—it’s about storytelling. As Lorech puts it, these will be tours of “his and her story,” inviting visitors to discover Manila’s history through the eyes and voices of its elders.
History with Heart: Storytelling the Filipino Way
What makes this project stand out is its personal, lived-in perspective. More than dates and events, visitors will hear tales of childhood adventures, wartime memories, and how neighborhoods have evolved over time—all coming from senior citizens who have witnessed the unfolding of Philippine history firsthand.
“Nakapaganda at napakagaling naman nila mag kwento (They are great storytellers),” Lorech noted with pride. “It brings back the love and passion for our culture and helps show both locals and foreigners just how colorful and joyful the culture of the Philippines really is,” she added.
Imagine walking by the San Agustin Church or Fort Santiago and hearing about old Manila from someone who played in its streets decades ago. It’s history told not just from books—but from the heart.
Empowering the Elderly, Enriching Philippine Tourism
Beyond enriching the visitor experience, this initiative also gives Filipino senior citizens meaningful livelihood opportunities. Partnering with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and other government agencies, NCSC aims to equip seniors with the skills they need—not just for tour guiding, but for long-term income-generating roles in hospitality and even agribusiness.
“This is just the start,” Lorech shared, adding that the commission is also set to meet with the Department of Agriculture to explore ways seniors can venture into agribusiness. It’s all part of the bigger picture of keeping older Filipinos active, engaged, and empowered.
