Makati gov’t lauds PWD-friendly sites

MANILA, Philippines—In recognition of companies sensitive to the needs of persons with disabilities (PWD), the local government of Makati has cited 15 PWD-friendly establishments or properties in the city.

In awarding rites held last week, the following made it to the list: five-star awardee Holiday Inn Suites; three-star awardees Citibank Center, Greenbelt 3 and 5, Glorietta 4 and 5; and one-star awardees Ayala Triangle Gardens, SM Makati, Greenbelt 2, Glorietta 1 and 2, Ayala Museum, Ayala Center Estates Association, Ascott Hotel Makati and San Antonio Plaza Arcade.

Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. noted that the builders and managers of these establishments made them easily accessible to PWDs by providing ramps as well as special washrooms, toilets, parking slots and nonskid floors. Customers with hearing or speech impairment are also given assistance by staff members in terms of directions and other communication aids.

“The city government and the people of Makati salute the winners of this search for taking the lead in promoting the rights and welfare of their customers and patrons who have special needs. We hope that many other establishments in the city as well as in other parts of the country will be inspired to do the same,” the mayor said in a statement.—Maricar Brizuela