PWDs gather to clarify rights

BY MARGIE L. GADIAN

SAN JOSE, Antique — Persons with disability (PWDs) in the province recently gathered in a one-day forum to seek for their rights.
PWDs from the towns of Laua-an, Bugasong, Barbaza, Tobias Fornier, Tibiao and San Jose, sought to clarify their rights under Republic Act (RA) 9442, which amended RA 7277 known as the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.
They inquired, among others, about the discounts they were entitled to, especially the 20-percent on medicines and other goods. It has been reported that some drugstores are not giving the discounts due the PWDs.
The group also asked about their access to government and private buildings. They said most buildings in the province, especially in this capital town, lack the necessary access for PWDs.
There are about 3,000 registered PWDs in the province.
Gov. Exequiel Javier, in his message, said, “The PWDS are entitled to their rights just like normal persons.”
Javier has also set aside P1.2 million from the provincial government coffers to build a center for PWDs.
Meanwhile, Laua-an Mayor Aser Baladjay said he will lobby with the provincial government to give clout to LGUs to exercise their mandated duty to support the cause of the disabled.
PWDs should be empowered and capacitated so they can become useful members of society, Baladjay added.
In addition to the earlier rights mentioned, PWDs are also entitled to discounts on transportation. They also have the right to seek employment whether in government or private establishments.
Panelists from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Commission on Human Rights, Department of Trade and Industry, Provincial Health Office, Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) and the business sector answered the participants’ queries.
The oath-taking of officers and members of the Provincial Council on Disability Affairs and launching of the PDAO capped the event. (PIA/PN)