Manila, Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development calls on establishments to respect the discounts and other benefits for persons with disabilities as this isΒ the mandate of Republic Act No. 10754, also known as An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disability.
The DSWD made this call following reports that some businesses and establishments are not complying with the law and are not granting discounts to PWDs.
βMay mga recent hearings na naganap dahil sa (There were recent hearings conducted due to the) non-compliance of an organization or business,β Asst. Sec. Fallarcuna told reporters.
According to the Assistant Secretary for International Affairs, non-compliant business owners may face charges and fines ranging from PHP 50,000 to PHP 200,000 or imprisonment from six months to six years.
The law states that all PWDs are eligible for a 20% discount and are exempt from paying Value Added Tax on all purchases of necessities.
READ: DSWD ASSISTS 2K VICTIMS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN 2023
READ: DSWD CHARTER SHOULD BE AMMENDED TO STREAMLINE DONATIONS β ESCUDERO
READ: ENHANCED DISCOUNTS AND SERVICES FOR SENIORS, PWDS APPROVED BY HOUSE
They are also eligible to receive educational assistance, avail social insurance, and use express lanes in all commercial buildings and government establishments.
The agency added that if a filed complaint is confirmed, authorities may revoke the business permit or franchise.
If other PWDs experience similar incidents, the agency encourages them to file complaints with the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) in their local government.