12/06/2023
Enhancing Support for the PWD Sector and their Families: Comprehensive PDAO Amendments Propose Promising Solutions to Key Issues
Expressing appreciation and gratitude to the commendable efforts put forth by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and the Tingog Sinirangan Partylist, along with the equally dynamic and visionary CongW. Yedda Romualdez and Cong. Jude Acidre for their sponsorship of House Bill 08305. Cong. Acidre has shown exceptional dedication to this bill, actively participating in its drafting, filing, and spending almost half of his day working with us during the filing. I salute Cong. Acidre for his unwavering commitment.❤️
The proposed amendments seek to address the current issues faced by the PWD sector in the country including the alarmingly low compliance rates with the existing legislation, circumvention of the law through the appointment of JO or contractual PDAOs, inadequate budget allocation for operational purposes, a fragmented institutional framework, and the absence of up-to-date PWD data. These issues have persisted for more than a decade, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive legislative overhaul.
The salient features of the Proposed Amendments:
1. Clear Mandate: To ensure clarity and enforceability, the proposed amendments explicitly mandate the establishment of a Person with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) under the direct supervision of the Local Chief Executive in every LGU. This provision aims to elevate the status of the PDAO, making it co-equal with other offices or departments within the LGU structure.
2. Compliance and Monitoring Body: To enhance oversight and foster adherence to the PDAO law, the proposed amendments necessitate the creation of a specialized body under the Department of the Interior and Local Government. This body will assume the responsibility of monitoring compliance.
3. Standardized Database: Recognizing the paramount importance of accurate data, the proposed amendments mandate the establishment of a standardized registration and database system at the local level. This system will facilitate the creation of a robust National Registry of PWDs, harmonizing information using the International Classification of Disability and Functioning (ICF) framework. Additionally, the database will serve as the foundation for issuing a tamper-proof PWD identification card, mitigating confusion and misuse.
4. Program Funding Support: To foster the effective functioning of PDAOs, the proposed amendments impose an obligation on each local government unit to incorporate programs, projects, and activities (PPAs)for PWD into their budgetary allocations. This provision ensures that adequate financial resources are dedicated to the establishment and sustainable operation of PDAOs, strengthening their capacity to serve the PWD sector effectively.
5. Accountability Measures: Recognizing the need for accountability, the proposed amendments introduce stringent measures for non-compliance. In cases where LGUs fail to fulfill their obligations, such as not including PPAs and their corresponding appropriations, the bill empowers the declaration of the LGU's annual budget as inoperative, highlighting the consequences of non-compliance.
With the unwavering support of dedicated PWD champions in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, the momentum to effect meaningful change for the PWD sector continues to surge. This comprehensive legislative initiative holds the potential to revolutionize the trajectory of the PWD sector's challenges, which have long been overlooked.
We also express our sincere gratitude to Cong. Rama and Cong. Vargas for also filing their own version of the bill; Cong. Libanan, and Cong. Abunda for manifesting their steadfast support in this pivotal endeavor.
I am Jenny Anacio,
Master of Laws (Social Justice) Macquarie University, Sydney Australia
Bachelor of Laws/Juris Doctor
Recipient, Australia Awards Scholarship
3-term City Councilor
Independent Consultant
Nangangarap ng isang bansa na may TUNAY NA KALAYAAN, kung saan ang lahat ay malayang makakilos dahil sa ang mga paligid na kinapapalooban ng ating lipunan, na tinatawag na "built-environment” ay nagagamit ng lahat nang malaya na hindi nalalagay sa “economic disadvantage” upang mamuhay ng may dangal ang bawat isa.
Dahil dito,handang gamitin ang anumang kakayanan, lakas at talento at tinig para sa mga kapatid na may kapansanan sa buong bansa. Passionately advocating for our rights in every seat of decision-making table where I find myself, including this free platform.
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