Inclusive development for PWDs

There’s a Magna Carta for Disabled Persons and there are provisions in the Building Code to promote mobility for persons with disabilities. As in most other laws and regulations in this country, however, enforcement of measures for the welfare of PWDs is spotty.

Proper enforcement is a challenge as the nation mark Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week. The annual observance, which started the other day, seeks to promote health and wellness opportunities for PWDs in line with inclusive development objectives.

In the past three decades, PWDs have seen numerous improvements in their plight, with laws passed against discrimination and providing them better access to employment and livelihood opportunities. Wheelchair ramps, special toilet facilities and accessible seats and parking areas for PWDs have become ubiquitous in public places and even private offices. Education programs for those with special needs have become increasingly available. There is reason for celebration in this special week.

There would be more celebration if the laws were properly enforced. Sen. Pia Cayetano, principal author of a law calling for the creation of a Persons with Disabilities Office in every province, city and municipality, says able-bodied individuals are taking advantage of privileges reserved for PWDs such as special parking slots. Under the law, local government units must monitor violations and impose penalties, in coordination with business owners and the National Council on Disability Affairs.

Despite significant progress in improving the plight of PWDs, more can be done particularly in preventive programs. Healthy lifestyles can lower the risks of acute eyesight and hearing impairments, for example, or the debilitating effects of diabetes. While there has been no reported case of polio in the country for over 20 years, the affliction can re-emerge if the vaccination program fails to reach certain households. Proper diet and regular exercise can go a long way in preventing illnesses that can lead to severe disabilities.

PWDs can also use more employment opportunities. The capability to earn a living is one of the best ways to make a person feel enabled. Inclusive development, a theme in the observance of this special week, should mean no one is left behind in contributing to national productivity.