TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The city government continues to establish initiatives to make the city more PWD-friendly, and in an effort to integrate the sector deeper into mainstream society, a City Council for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) was formed on March 30 through a committee meeting.
In compliance with DILG MC No. 2021-041, which reiterates the necessity of strengthening the functionality of local government units in catering to the needs of the PWD population, the city government stepped up to ensure that PWDs do not fall under the forgotten priorities, and should be continuously given platforms for their needs and concerns.
The newly formed City Special Concerns and Coordinating Office will lead the body, which will include representatives from various city government offices, CLGOO, the City Schools Division Office, and the City Association of Persons with Disabilities.
Said council is expected to submit policies on the empowerment of PWDs, monitor and evaluate the implementation of programs, maintain tight convergence with other concerned agencies, and improve awareness of PWDs’ rights and privileges within the community.
Mark Anthony Atiwag, a member of the PWD community, who is currently working as a job order employee at the Person with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), echoed the benefits of having the council on the welfare of the PWD sector, which is often neglected in the city.
“Dakkel ti tulong na daytoy PWD council ta maikkan boses dagiti PWDs ditoy siyudad, lalo ta adu ti complaints nga adu kano nga establisimento iti haan mangted discounts kanyada, “he said.
He also added, “Maimplement pay ditoy ti accessibility ti PWDs ti public places, kasla kuma kadagita handicapped parking spaces and wheelchair ramps.”
Upon approval of the council’s creation, PWDs in the city will expect a more strengthened implementation of their rights and privileges.
By Ruth Cupang