The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has lauded government efforts to give persons with disabilities (PWDs) greater accessibility and mobility amidst the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the strict measures adopted to contain its spread.
(MANILA BULLETIN)
CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia on Monday, Feb. 9, named these efforts as the approval of House Bill 2224 or the "PWD-friendly and Safe Transportation Act;" House Bill 2017 or "An Act Mandating the Provision of Exclusive Parking Space for Persons with Disability and Penalizing Unauthorized Use Thereof;" and House Bill 4596 or "An Act to Further Promote the Mobility of Persons with Disability by Mandating Certain Accessibility Facilities and Services."
De Guia, a lawyer, said the House Special Committee on Persons with Disabilities also unanimously agreed to consolidate the proposed PWD laws and amend the existing ones to address the day-to-day challenges of PWDs.
She pointed out that “these measures are a welcome update to ensure that the evolving needs of PWDs in this health crisis are addressed.”
"Daily routines that most people find easy can already pose a huge challenge to PWDs even during normal circumstances. Prioritizing the welfare and needs of this sector will help ensure that they can cope and will not be left behind," she stressed.
She explained that the envisioned consolidated bill will provide transport safety and convenience for PWDs, since it will cover the provision of exclusive parking space, installation of accessibility facilities and services, as well as the designation of service lanes in both public and private offices for their convenience.
"The CHR looks forward to the swift passage of the consolidated law for PWDs to expediently remove the barriers that limit their participation and inclusion in all aspects of social life," she said.
“Now that the country is transitioning into the new normal, the PWDs and other disadvantaged sectors of society are able to move forward with the rest of the population,” she emphasized.