Restaurant in Philippines empowers deaf workers
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In Puerto Princesa, Philippines, Ka Inato restaurant employs approximately 20 deaf people out of a staff of 50, offering them both jobs and a supportive community.
Owner Eric John Yayen began hiring people with disabilities in 2012, initially facing some resistance from existing staff. Yayen addressed communication challenges by hiring multiple deaf employees, enabling them to support one another and learn to interact with hearing colleagues and customers.
The restaurant prioritizes equal treatment, providing deaf employees with the same pay, benefits, and disciplinary standards as hearing staff. Ka Inato also established a savings program, starting with small contributions from wages, which has enabled employees to travel internationally for the first time. Jocelyn Pilapil, a 42-year-old employee, shared that the job provides her with a livelihood and a sense of belonging.
Yayen encourages other business owners to hire people with disabilities, emphasizing that they should be given equal opportunities and treated with respect, not pity. He hopes to provide a workplace where deaf employees can earn, grow, and feel like they belong.
