The Philippines prepared guides for hearing impaired tourists

The Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched a program to develop excursions for tourists with hearing impairments. The first step was the preparation of special guides - in this capacity will also act hearing impaired citizens of the country. According to DOT, 13 tour guides will teach 30 students from the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) to Manila’s historical spots. Among the attractions that will be accessible to travelers with special needs are the National Museum of the Philippines, the historic José Rizal city park and the fort of Santiago - a fortification with a five hundred years history.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said: “Having tour guides skilled with knowledge of sign language and an understanding of the services needed by persons with disabilities (PWDs) is a must under the DOT’s thrust for barrier-free tourism. Not only will this provide quality service to tourists with special needs, but more importantly, this will create opportunities, which are the very essence of an inclusive tourism industry”.

The Department of Tourism is preparing to launch other similar educational programs.