BALANGA CITY — Provincial Government of Bataan is urging local government units (LGUs) under its jurisdiction to create their own Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) pursuant to Republic Act 7277 otherwise known as Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office Head Marilyn Tigas said the creation of PDAO aims to provide easier access of government services to PWDs in the community.
“PDAO will serve as the voice of our PWDs in raising their concerns that’s why we will encourage all LGUs to comply in establishing an office and designating an officer for them,” she stressed.
Tigas said that in consideration of budget restraints, 4th to 6th class municipalities may designate a focal person who shall perform the functions of the PDAO.
On September 21, PCDA will hold an orientation on the awareness of PDAO to city or municipal social welfare and development officers, Sangguniang Bayan chairpersons on social services, budget officers, and other concerned LGU employees.
“As we strive to keep our community a PWD-friendly province, LGUs should do their part in establishing PDAO and forming a local council for the disabled,” Tigas furthered.
In 2017, the province has already established and operated its own PDAO headed by former Samahan ng Taong May Kapansanan sa Bataan President Rolando Cortes.