Mandaue equips offices with wheelchairs for PWDs

The Mandaue City government has purchased three brand new wheelchairs for disabled clients and visitors.

The wheelchairs will be used at the city hall, sports complex and office of the Department of Education City Division.

A ceremonial turnover was held during the launching of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week attended by around 2,000 persons with disabilities (PWDs) from the 27 barangays in the city at the Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex.

The purchase was authorized by a resolution authored by Councilor Jimmy Lumapas, requiring every public building in Mandaue City to have a standby wheelchair.

“We find it fitting and proper to give PWDs equal access to public services and enhance their mobility as provided for by law,” said Lumapas. He added more offices will be given wheelchairs.

Republic Act 7277 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons requires national and local governments to allocate funds for the provision of architectural facilities or structural features for disabled persons in government buildings and facilities.

“This is a welcome development for our sector,” said Michael Pielago, president of Mandaue Federation for the Welfare of PWDs.

City Mayor Jonas Cortes, for his part, said his administration remains committed to the sector’s welfare.

The city has given purchase booklets to be used by PWDs in availing a 20 percent discount in medicine and grocery items and other services as  provided for by RA 7277.