Empowering people with visual impairments through advocacy, and education
VisionABLE Manila is a platform that highlights the experiences of people with visual impairments, particularly those with low vision, navigating public spaces in Metro Manila. On this website, you can watch our documentary, explore guides and infographics, and find resources to make public spaces more accessible and inclusive. The homepage offers a snapshot of the project and invites viewers to learn, engage, and take action for accessibility advocacy.
Understanding Visual Impairments
Learn about different types of visual impairments and their impact on daily life in our city
Color Blindness
Difficulty distinguishing certain hues or shades. Signage designs must not rely solely on color to convey information and should use distinguishable color combinations, varied shapes, patterns, and clearly labeled color names.
Low Vision
Need for large, clear fonts, vibrant colors, and well-lit signages. Visual angle, size, contrast, and illumination are essential for readability. Brightness, clarity, and contrast ensure visibility in different lighting conditions.
Patchy Vision
Missing or obscured areas within the visual field. These blind spots cause users to miss crucial information. Strong contrast, generous spacing, large visual elements, and redundant cues help ensure information remains perceptible.
Accessibility Challenges in Metro Manila
Understanding the barriers that prevent full participation in public life
Poor Signage & Wayfinding
Many public spaces lack clear, high-contrast signage and tactile indicators that help people with visual impairments navigate independently.
- Missing braille on building directories
- Low contrast signage that's hard to read
- Inconsistent placement of directional signs
Hazardous Sidewalks & Streets
Uneven pavements, unexpected obstacles, and lack of tactile paving create dangerous conditions for pedestrians with low vision.
- Cracked and uneven sidewalks
- Street vendors blocking pathways
- Missing tactile warning strips at crossings
Inaccessible Public Transportation
Public transport systems often lack audio announcements, high-contrast route numbers, and assistance for passengers with visual impairments.
- No audio announcements for stops
- Unclear bus/jeepney route markings
- Insufficient assistance at terminals
Inadequate Lighting
Poorly lit public areas make navigation extremely difficult and dangerous, especially for those with night blindness or reduced vision.
- Dim or non-functional street lights
- Dark underpasses and walkways
- Inconsistent lighting in public buildings
Creating Accessible Spaces
Practical solutions and design principles for inclusive public environments
Tactile Paving
Textured ground surface indicators help people with visual impairments detect street crossings, stairs, and platform edges through touch.
- Raised dots for warning indicators
- Raised bars for directional guidance
- High color contrast with surroundings
- Durable, weather-resistant materials
Audio Signals
Audible cues at crosswalks, elevators, and transit stops provide critical wayfinding information for people who cannot rely on visual signals.
- Accessible pedestrian signals (APS) at crossings
- Elevator floor announcements
- Transit stop and route information
- Emergency evacuation instructions
High-Contrast Design
Strong visual contrast between text, backgrounds, and navigation elements makes information accessible to people with low vision.
- Minimum 70% contrast ratio for signage
- Dark text on light backgrounds
- Color-coded systems with pattern backup
- Matte finishes to reduce glare
Proper Lighting
Adequate, well-designed lighting improves safety and navigation for everyone, especially those with light sensitivity or night blindness.
- Uniform lighting without dark spots
- Adjustable brightness for different needs
- Reduced glare with diffused light sources
- Motion-activated lighting in key areas
Featured Documentary
What's it like to navigate Manila with blurred vision? Find out, watch now!
Experience firsthand the daily challenges faced by people with visual impairments as they navigate the streets, transportation, and public spaces of Metro Manila.
Watch Full DocumentaryGet Involved
Join us in making Metro Manila accessible for everyone. Together, we can create a city where people with visual impairments can navigate safely and independently.
Watch & Share
Watch our documentary and share it with your network to raise awareness about accessibility challenges.
Watch NowRead Guides
Learn about visual impairments and discover research-based recommendations for accessible design.
Read Resources