Hope abounded among Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as they warmly received various government assistance and support programs for National Disability Rights Week on July 17.
Among a hundred participants, 48-year-old Eugene Molina shared his emotional story. He is still in tears from the discrimination and abuse he faces with Polio.
Gin tatagan ako pirmi hin kaarawdan hit mga tawo, gin tatawag ako nga piay, gin uubos, mismo ngani ha pamiling hin trabaho gin papakurian pa ako,” Molina expressed.
(People constantly shame me and call me limp. They look down on me, and even when I look for a job, they make it difficult for me.)
From the age of 7 months, he was unable to walk due to an illness called Polio. It is caused by a virus that affects the nerves in the spinal cord or brain stem, leading to an inability to move certain limbs.
He has been in a wheelchair growing up. Despite not being at fault for this condition, he often felt judged and prevented from showing his capabilities.
The event aimed to support people like Molina by offering health services, mandatory health benefits, ₱3,000 financial assistance, scholarship applications, and Civil and National ID registration.
Additionally, there was an opportunity for them to address any non-compliance with legal laws protecting their rights.
According to Regional Director Grace Q. Subong of DSWD-8, it’s essential to prioritize the rights of Persons with Disabilities and work towards improving their situation.
She added that they are collaborating with other partner agencies, each having specific goals to establish better services for this community.
Meanwhile, Molina emphasized that this event is incredibly beneficial for them as it helps raise awareness of their rights and teaches them how to prevent discrimination from others.
Nakadamo na gihap talaga ako maka-api hin sugad hini nga katitirok. Yana, gin tawagan ako han amon barangay para maka-attend liwat didi. Dako tak pasalamat talaga. Maupay ini nga pamamalakad hit gobyerno,” he said.
(I’m always really eager to join gatherings like this. Today, our barangay invited me to attend here. I am very thankful. This is good governance.)
The Republic Act No. 7277, also known as the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, aims to address the needs and concerns of Persons with Disabilities, granting them equal rights and opportunities to live independently.
The Regional Committee on Disability Affairs, under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Eastern Visayas, hosted the event, along with other partner government agencies.
Centered on the theme “Promoting Inclusion: Celebrating Abilities and Advocating Access,” the celebration promises to recognize that no disabled persons shall be denied access to rehabilitative services and other livelihood opportunities. (AAC/JKPA, PIA Leyte)
