In line with SM Cares commitment to promote a barrier-free and disability inclusive environment, SM City Olongapo Central and SM City Olongapo Downtown recently conducted a specialized seminar on the proper handling of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) for its mall tenants, partner agencies, and employees.
The seminar aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to provide respectful, compassionate, and effective assistance to PWDs, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience within the mall. Rizalino Jose, head of Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) and Ellie Francisco facilitated the seminar, highlighting best practices for customer service, accessible facility use, and emergency support for individuals with disabilities.
Participants engaged in interactive discussions, role-playing exercises, and real-life scenarios to better understand the challenges faced by PWDs in public spaces. Topics covered included Magna Carta of Disabled Persons, proper communication techniques, mobility assistance, and awareness of accessible mall features.
SM provides facilities like PWD ramps, parking and proper embarkation and disembarkation for PWDs, special restrooms, counters which are accessible to wheelchairs, elevator with braille dots, designed areas for PWDs in cinemas, as well as utilities with accessible height like pay phones and wash room sinks.
Some of the Program’s notable initiatives which were held in partnership with some PWD organizations include the annual Angels Walk for Autism, Happy Walk for Down Syndrome, Special Movie Screening for the Blind and Deaf, Emergency Preparedness Forum for PWDs and Senior Citizens, Sensitivity Training and Regular Orientation for mall frontliners, and other special celebrations.
The aim to protect and treat persons with special needs is one of the utmost priorities of SM Cares program on Persons with Disabilities.