Singer-actor JM Rodriguez has written a letter to PWD Philippines after the organization called him out over his remark about "kids who use fake PWD IDs."
“Just want to clear up my comment on kids using a fake PWD card. I am 100% in support of the rights of PWDs, and my post was to point out how using fake IDs or obtaining one through improper means diminishes the rights of those who are indeed PWD and entitled to benefits,” his letter read in part.
Recall that one of JM’s previous Facebook post read: "Shame on you kids using fake disabled IDs to use priority lane at Shake Shack. I'm so jealous of you LOL PS If they're not in a wheelchair .. don't allow them !"
The Facebook Fan Page of the Organization for Pinoys with Disabilities Inc, a non-government organization dedicated to helping PWDs help themselves, called the attention of JM over the remark.
The organization wrote “a PWD is not just someone who is wheelchair-bound” and that there are two types of PWDs (with an apparent disability and non-apparent disability).
In his letter after that, the singer-actor cleared, “The kids were laughing at being able to get away with the fake ID hence I was upset (and paid 5k for it!). I made a stupid joke that I am jealous they were in the shorter line and not that they had a disability because I knew they did not.”
Directly addressing what PWD wrote, JM continued: “You are absolutely right, however, to say that many disabilities are not visible. The logo is misleading (person in a wheelchair) for someone like me who is not oriented about PED so in my ignorance I added that line but I appreciate you taking time to tag and send me the information on this.”
In closing, the singer-actor wished the NGO “more power,” then thanked them.
“This mature and respectful way of educating citizens is something I truly appreciate and I do hope that we continue to be vigilant to people who try to cheat the system by using fake cards and documents so we can protect and not discriminate on those who truly are.” (With a report from Stephanie Bernardino)
READ MORE: PWD Philippines reacts to actor JM Rodriguez’ remarks about ‘kids who used fake PWD IDs’