Pia Cayetano deplores people who take advantage of PWDs

Shame on those who take advantage of benefits meant for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Senator Pia Cayetano said on Thursday.

Cayetano was reacting to several photos that have recently gone viral on social media showing able-bodied motorists occupying parking slots reserved for PWDs in various malls and restaurants.

“People who take advantage of benefits reserved for PWDs at the latter’s expense have no shame and no sense of respect,” she said in a statement.

The senator issued the remark ahead of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, which will be observed throughout the country from July 17-23.

“It’s a good sign that netizens are posting photos and denouncing such violations online. This indicates growing awareness on the plight of the differently abled sector,” Cayetano said.

“But it’s not just the photos but also action that must go viral and spill over to the real world. Much needs to be done to prevent PWDs from being deprived, not only of parking spaces, but more so of the rights and privileges that are due them under the law,” she added.

Cayetano then urged mall owners and administrators of public utilities, government institutions and commercial establishments to make sure that PWDs have full access to facilities and services that were meant for them.

“The law mandates establishments to ensure mobility and provide discounts to PWDs in line with promoting equal opportunities, non-discrimination, and inclusive development,” she said.

And yet, she said, violations of the mobility law in the Building Code (Batas Pambansa 344) and the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons (RA 7277, as amended by RA 9442) were reported regularly online.

The senator also underscored the role of local governments in ensuring that PWD laws and ordinances are properly enforced.

Cayetano is the principal author of RA 10070, which mandates the creation of Persons with Disability Office (PDAO) in every province, city and municipality.

“Through PDAO, the local government must take the lead in monitoring complaints and recommending penalties for violations, in coordination with business owners, PWD groups, and agencies such as the National Council on Disability Affairs,” she pointed out. TVJ

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