A marketing assistant at a hotel in Manila has found his first official job through the Manila City Government’s employment program for seniors and persons with disabilities (PWDs), an initiative that continues to open doors for individuals often left behind in the workforce.

Kevin Maglaqui, 29, who has an orthopedic disability, is now working at Century Park Hotel after learning about the opportunity from a friend.

The job opening was specifically welcoming applicants from the PWD sector.

“Marketing Assistant at Century Park Hotel Manila is my first job,” Kevin shared.

“While I was streaming games or doing content on social media from 2020–2025, naghahanap pa din ako ng work na nagbabaka-sakaling ma-hire (I was still looking for work, hoping I’d eventually get hired).”

Motivated by the city’s call for companies to become more inclusive, he decided to try applying again.

“Nagkaroon ako ng konting motivation na mag-apply ulit ng work sa Manila (I recently gained a bit of motivation to start applying for jobs again here in Manila).”

But the job-seeking journey wasn’t easy. Kevin spoke candidly about the biases he encountered during the application process.

“The challenges I always face are the look of discrimination, to the point they asked, ‘Can you type?’ or ‘Can you write?’ Pero nakalagay naman sa resume ko na graduate ako sa normal state university, which is PUP (But my resume clearly states I graduated from a regular state university, which is PUP).”

At Century Park Hotel, however, he found a different experience, one of respect and inclusion.

“They treat me as their equal. They welcome me with open arms. Hindi ko inexpect na magiging komportable ako, pero ang bilis ko lang naging komportable with my co-workers (I didn’t expect to feel comfortable, but I quickly did because of my co-workers).”

Kevin has also taken to social media to share his journey.

He runs a growing Facebook page where he documents his life with a disability and shares inspiring stories meant to encourage fellow PWDs.

Through honest posts and motivational content, he hopes to empower others to pursue their passions despite challenges.

To other PWDs or seniors who may feel discouraged from applying, Kevin offers heartfelt advice:

“For PWDs, do what makes you happy. As much as possible, wag mo pakinggan sinasabing negative ng tao sayo, especially 'yung ‘hindi mo kaya dahil may kapansanan ka’. Gawin mo lang yung nagpapasaya sayo at yung gusto mo — and dadating din 'yung blessings na deserve mo. Never give up (Don’t listen to the negativity, especially the “you can’t because of your disability” comments. Just do what makes you happy and what you love — the blessings you deserve will come. Never give up).

For employers who remain hesitant to hire persons with disabilities or seniors, he had this to say:

“There are many unique, skillful PWDs out there. Alam kong hindi pa fully open ang Pilipinas, pero I know, dadating din tayo dun (I know the Philippines isn’t fully open yet — but I believe we’ll get there).”

As for what lies ahead, Kevin shared his hopes not just for himself, but for the PWD community as a whole.

“For myself: Financial stability. Own house. Happy life. For PWDs: Acceptance and inclusivity.”