More persons with disabilities (PWDs)-friendly facilities will be constructed at the Line 2 of the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) to improve its services to its commuters.
In partnership with the Junior Chamber International-Manila (JCI-Manila), the LRTA will implement the “WheelAssist” Project which is aimed at improving the commuting experience of PWDs. The memorandum of agreement for the project was signed by LRTA Administrator Jeremy Regino and JCI- Manila Executive Treasurer Danny Perez.
One of the facilities that are expected to be set up are the installation of braille stickers at the Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) to aid the visually impaired passengers.
Regino said the project will also paved the way for training of LRTA customer-facing staff on how to handle and engage with PWDs.
He said the training on Non-Visible Disability, Sensitivity and Awareness with Basic Filipino Language will be facilitated by TERPCAP, an accessibility services provider that enables organizations to become more accessible and inclusive.
An estimated of 900 frontline personnel of LRTA are scheduled to undergo the said training in batches starting June 20.
“We are thankful for the partnership. The training will help our frontline personnel to be more knowledgeable and responsive to the needs of our PWD passengers,” Regino said.
For his part, Lim said the accessibility and ease of use of transport facilities promote inclusivity for PWDs.
"The effects can be immediately felt especially in terms of better quality of living and greater economic benefits. Through more inclusive policies and programs, we may be able to not only rebuild the confidence of our PWD brothers and sisters, but also rebuild a more equitable society," said Lim.