The Bataan Sangguniang Panlalawigan headed by Vice Governor Cris Garcia passed two ordinances this year aimed at promoting the rights and welfare of senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs).
“Bataan Senior Citizens and PWDs Workforce Integration Ordinance” will implement capacity-building programs and initiatives through the Public Employment Service Office and other relevant offices to enhance the skills and capabilities of senior citizens and PWDs, enabling them to secure gainful employment, according to news report from Provincial Information Office.
The ordinance will also grant incentives for employers who actively hire and retain senior citizens and PWDs, encouraging businesses to embrace diversity and inclusivity in their workforce.
The other provincial legislation, “Ordinance Strongly Promoting the Creation of Persons With Disability (PWD) Committee in Every Barangay Council and the Establishment of a PWD Desk in Every Barangay in the Province of Bataan and Providing for the Respective Function Thereof” focuses on enhancing the representation and support for PWDs at the grassroots level.
PIO report said under this ordinance, barangay councils are urged to establish a PWD Committee responsible for providing advisory support on PWD concerns.
The committee’s role includes proposing budgetary allocations for the operation and maintenance of PWD desks, formulating development plans and programs, and assisting the council in shaping the economic and social progress of PWDs within their communities.
The ordinance emphasizes the need for barangays to establish PWD Desks, which will serve as a centralized hub for PWD-related services, information dissemination, and coordination. The desk will also handle reports or complaints concerning violations of laws and ordinances that affect the PWD community.
