Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. has sought a review of the implementation of Batas Pambansa 344, otherwise known as the “Accessibility Law” that mandates buildings, institutions, establishments and public utilities to install facilities to enhance the mobility of persons with disabilities (PWDs).
In filing Senate Resolution No. 1077 which he filed on Tuesday, July 23, coinciding with Apolinario Mabini Day, Revilla urged the appropriate Senate committees to review the effectiveness of the implementation of the 40 year old law, with the end in view of possibly amending it to further protect, uphold, and promote the welfare of PWDs.
BP 344 was enacted in Feb. 25, 1983 by then President Ferdinand E. Marcos.
The law was envisioned to promote the rights of persons with disabilities and help them to participate fully in society.
The law also aims for PWDs to enjoy and develop within their communities and societies in which they live and the enjoy similar opportunities available to other citizens.
“We need to look into it and study it again so that we can see if it is still suitable to respond to the special needs of PWDs," Reviila said in pushing for the review.
In terms of implementation, Revilla noted that accessibility for PWDs remain to be a challenge as some public buildings and infrastructure remain non-compliant with standards set for PWDs.
“We want an audit of the facilities to see if they are compliant with this law. Remember, this is a law. It is required for them to provide facilities that are accessible for the use of PWDs," the senator explained.
Revilla ‘s call for a review of the PWD Accessibility Law comes after the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) drew flak for building a ramp for PWDs that was deemed too steep and dangerous to be used by them.
The controversial ramp, which is connected to a footbridge at an EDSA busway station, was eventually temporarily closed for improvements.