Gov’t will make sure PWDs are treated right–Aquino

Persons with disabilities (PWDs). INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday said the government has made it a point to ensure persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the country would be treated right, as he underscored the need to consider their disabilities as just being an “incidental” thing.

Speaking at the 2nd Asia-Pacific Community-Based Rehabilitation Congress at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza hotel in Pasay City, Aquino said that when his administration pledged inclusive growth to all, it not only meant providing opportunities for the poor but also “those by virtue of certain limitations tend to be thought of as being unable to contribute to society.”

Aquino said this kind of mind-set did not necessarily stem from “cruelty” but perhaps “from ignorance and mistaken notions.”

“And this is something that we want to change, because we know that to perpetuate this prejudice means not only depriving persons with disabilities of their rights, but more importantly, depriving them of their dreams,” he said.

Mr. Aquino said conferences like these were meant to promote the rights of certain sectors but added that this forum had a “simpler” and “more grand” idea and that “we only need to be considerate of one another.”

“We have to start treating each other the way we should … by seeing persons with disabilities with the understanding that their disabilities are only incidental and according to them what is rightfully theirs,” the President said.

He said that the country has instituted measures for the benefit of PWDs, noting that 400 local government units have been empowering this sector by adopting community-based rehabilitation strategies.

“Their measures can be as simple as ensuring that someone in a wheelchair is able to move around freely, whether it be to attend school or to file paperwork at the municipal office; or as far-reaching as providing them with opportunities for education and livelihood,” Mr. Aquino said.

The President also said the country has centers that could provide rehabilitation and care to PWDs and programs that provide them access to training and employment opportunities.

“Through this Congress, we are showing the world that we recognize the right of every person to be part of growth, but more importantly that we recognize every person’s capacity to contribute in a meaningful way to moving the country forward,” he said.