Government, firms told to comply with law to hire PWDs

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-7 is encouraging government and private companies to hire more persons with disabilities (PWD).

DSWD-7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn B. Macapobre, in a statement, said that Republic Act 10524, or the Act Expanding the Positions Reserved for Persons with Disabilities and its Implementing Rules and Regulations that was signed last June 17, 2016, provides PWDs more access to employment opportunities.

The law stipulates that at least one percent of all positions in government agencies, offices or corporations shall be reserved for PWDs.

The same law also applies to private corporations with more than 100 employees.

Daisy Lor, DSWD-7 point person for PWD and Youth sector, said that their agency has strengthened its campaign and advocacy of this law so that PWDs, local government units, non-government organizations and the public will know about it.

She said that by knowing and understanding the provisions of the law, PWDs will be guided on how to avail of the benefits and privileges due them.

Macapobre said that they have an Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center that serves persons with physical and social disabilities like the visually impaired, physically handicapped, negative hansenites, mentally challenged, and other disadvantaged sector. (FREEMAN)