TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The City Special Concerns and Coordinating Office (CSCCO) expressed concern over the prevalent lack of awareness on the law RA 10754 otherwise known as “An act expanding the benefits of persons with disabilities (PWDs)” saying it makes the situation of challenged individuals even more difficult.
In a lecture conducted today in Brgy. Cabaruan by the CSCCO, Perlita Bag-ayan, a PWD herself, said the best way to handle the issue is to launch a widespread communication campaign to raise awareness of the law and recognition of the rights of PWD in our society.
According to her, there are still a number of businesses including pharmacies, medical facilities, dining places, entertainment venues, hotels, and transportation services which blatantly disregard the law.
Bag-ayan is particularly concerned about the fact that despite a disability being obvious or a proof of identity being shown, the individual is still denied the opportunity to exercise their legal rights.
She went on to say that as PWDs are the most vulnerable group in society, it is imperative that the issue be addressed immediately.
According to her, one method to do this is for all businesses to post signages highlighting the rights and benefits of people with disabilities on their premises so that people with disabilities are aware of their entitlements.
During the occasion, social welfare officer Marydhel Lattot, reminded everyone that it is illegal to give double discounts. This implies that a PWD must utilize either their Senior Citizen ID or PWD ID card to take advantage of the 20 percent discount if they are a senior citizen who is also eligible for one under the terms of their valid Senior Citizen ID.
“The needs of 2,464 PWDs in the city must not be compromised but rather given constant support to aid their continuous rehabilitation and reintegration into the mainstream society”, Lattot emphasized. By Darwin S. Serion
