The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is pushing for the strict implementation of the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and similar laws that protect the vulnerable sector from discrimination in public utility vehicles (PUVs).
DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said PUV operators, as well as bus drivers and conductors, should undergo orientation seminars on Republic Act 9442, which amended Republic Act 7277, known as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities.
“It’s about time that the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities become part of the refresher courses for bus drivers, conductors and even operators of PUVs so they can be better informed on the rights of commuters who have disabilities, whether apparent or non-apparent in the case of those with mental challenges or illness,” Dumlao said.
The DSWD spokesperson made the statement following the filing of charges by the family of a 25-year-old PWD who was assaulted and teased inside a bus last June 9.
The complaint was for violation of Section 10(a) of the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. Among the respondents are the driver and conductor of the bus.
“The DSWD will also provide livelihood assistance to the family of Mak-mak. We will also provide assistance for Mak-mak’s therapy as a person with disability that is non-apparent,” Dumlao said.
“There is also a need for a massive information drive to educate the commuting public that persons with disabilities who are non-apparent, such as the case of Mak-mak and Julian. This will ensure that both the drivers and commuters will be aware of the disabilities that are not visible,” she added.
