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• The Republic of Philippines
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  • Statistical Data on Disability Profile
  • Current Situation of Persons with Disabilities
    • Definition & Classification
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  • The Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons, 2003-2012
  • Profile of Disability-related Organizations
  • Appendix I
  • Appendix II

3. Current Situation of Persons with Disabilities

1. 3.1 Definition and Classification

   The definition of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) has changed over the years as different legislative acts were passed. The following are three main definitions used in legislation.

   1. Persons with Disabilities was defined in 1992, by the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities Act, as:

      "those persons suffering from restrictions from different abilities as a result of a mental, physical, and sensory impairment, to perform an activity in the manner or within the range considered normal for a human being."

      Under its "Definition of Terms", for the purposes of the Act, the following were defined:

      Disabled Persons are those suffering from restriction of different abilities, as a result of a mental, physical or sensory impairment, to perform an activity in the manner or within the range considered normal for a human being;

      Impairment is any loss, diminution or aberration of psychological, physiological, or anatomical structure of function;

      Disability shall mean (1) a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more psychological, physiological or anatomical function of an individual or activities of such individual; (2) a record of such an impairment; or (3) being regarded as having such an impairment;

      Handicap refers to a disadvantage for a given individual resulting from an impairment or a disability, that limits or prevents the functions or activity, that is considered normal given the age and sex of the individual;

      Marginalized Disabled Persons refer to disabled persons who lack access to rehabilitative services and opportunities to be able to participate fully in socioeconomic activities and who have no means of livelihood or whose incomes fall below the poverty threshold

   2. The Economic Impendence of Disabled Persons Act in 1999 defined Persons with Disabilities as "persons who cannot perform work in the usual and customary way due to loss of limbs or any part of the body by injury or absence thereof by birth"
   3. The National Law defines PWDs as "those suffering from restriction or lack of ability to perform an activity in the manner or within the range considered normal for a human being as a result of a mental, physical, or sensory impairment."

   In the most recent census of 2000, the National Statistics Office (NSO) adopted the following definition and categories PWDs.

   "Disability refers to any restriction or lack of ability (resulting from impairment) to perform an activity in the manner or within the range considered normal for a human being. Impairments associated with disabilities may be physical, mental or sensory motor impairment such as partial or total blindness and deafness, muteness, speech defect, orthopedic handicaps, and mental retardation." The following descriptions were used:

   Totally Blind No useful sight in any of the two eyes. (Cannot distinguish objects in front of him/her). Persons may have some light perception (e.g., can realize that it is midday or midnight), but do not have usable sight. They need Braille materials for reading.

   Partially Blind With better eyesight than totally blind: can distinguish objects in front of him. However, even with eyeglasses cannot distinguish large letters. Practically, this person can walk without hitting his head against the wall, but cannot read anything. Included here as persons with severely limiting vision situations: central only or the sides only or only like a pie of a cake. Persons who can see some objects so that they can walk better and do some activities, but they cannot read printed text even with eyeglasses. They need Braille materials for reading.

   Low Vision With the better eye, even with eyeglasses, cannot distinguish regular size letters. Practically, can only read the bigger headlines in the newspapers. Included here are persons with limiting vision situations: central only or the sides only like a pie of a cake. Persons who, even with appropriate eyeglasses, need large print text (i.e., at least 18 points font) to read at a distance of one foot (30 cm.)

   Totally Deaf Cannot realize any regular sound. Practically the person does not react when somebody claps his hands behind his back. Person may still hear the blowing of a horn of a truck, or the beat of a drum, cannot understand words even with a hearing aid. Mute: There are almost no mute people. The normal case is the so-called "deaf-mute" which is for people who, because of deafness, did not learn to talk but they have all what is physically necessary to talk. Treat them as deaf.

   Partially Deaf Can hear speech but cannot discriminate the words. Refers to a person who, with both ears, can recognize sounds but cannot determine the words (partially deaf).

   Hard of Hearing Person can understand words only if spoken very loud or close to the ear and (normally) have severe difficulties if there are other noises (e.g., other people speaking in the room). Person can be helped with a hearing aid but still has difficulties understanding normal speech.

   Oral Defect Person at least 15 years old, is object of ridicule or has severely limited job opportunities because of either:

   • a general stammering problem which makes normal speech extremely difficult
   • or a cleft-palate or hare-lip that cannot be solved by current medical procedures

   One Hand Person has only one useful hand. One arm is not usable (e.g., amputated, deformed or paralyzed arm). Included here are two artificial arms if they are rather useful (i.e., both arms are missing but are replaced with artificial arm).

   No Hands Person has no useful hands. Both arms are not usable (e.g., amputated, deformed and missing).

   One Leg Person has only one useful leg: walks with crutches and/or artificial leg and/or braces. Note (1) Walking with an artificial leg can be considered if it really prevents the person from holding most jobs. (2) If the person has two legs amputated but in such a way that artificial legs can be used, the person can still go to most places, including going up the stairs. It may be slower, but it is surely very different from a person in a wheelchair who cannot even climb a single step without help.

   No Legs Person has no useful legs or two legs unusable (e.g., normally sits in a wheelchair.)

   Quadriplegic - Regular Regular/Mild cerebral palsy: person can still walk and do most activities or might only be slightly awkward and require no special assistance.

   The term cerebral refers to the brain;s two halves, or hemispheres, and palsy describes any disorder that impairs control of body movement. Thus, these disorders are not caused by problems in the muscles or nerves. Instead, faulty development or damage to motor areas in the brain disrupts the brain;s ability to adequately control movement and posture. An individual with cerebral palsy may have difficulty with fine motor tasks, such as writing or cutting with scissors; experience trouble with maintaining balance and walking; or be affected by involuntary movements, such as uncontrollable writhing motion of the hands or drooling.

   Quadriplegic - Severe Severe cerebral palsy: person is severely affected by the cerebral palsy or might be unable to walk and need extensive, lifelong care.

   Retarded - Regular Regularly intellectually impaired: can be trained to be toilet trained, to wash himself, eat on his own and follow single instructions. Included here are those with Down Syndrome (Mongoloids) and most autistic (persons with autism). Note, not included are slow learners and persons who can travel alone.

   Retarded - Severe Severely intellectually impaired: cannot be toilet trained, eat alone, severe autism, etc.

   Mentally Ill - Regular Regularly impaired by mental illness: actually under psychiatric care or should be under psychiatric care (but do not have the money) as well as patients who recovered within the last three years (to consider the problem that so many becomes sick again). Included here are most persons with epilepsy even if the origin of their problem is very different, people treat them a bit the same as the mentally ill, they have more difficulties obtaining jobs, etc.

   Mentally Ill - Severe Severely impaired by mental illness: persons needing hospitalization or having been hospitalized within the last three years (as mentioned above, to consider the fact that so many become sick again).

   Multiple-Impairment - Regular Regularly multiple impaired: Multiple impairment is always a severe disability, yet among those with multiple impairment, one can be much lighter than the others whom we call severely multiple handicapped. Examples, are one arm and one leg unusable, mentally retarded and some physical defect.

   Multiple-Impairment - Severe Severely multiple impaired. Examples are both legs and both arms paralyzed (quadriplegic); deaf and blind, and severely cerebral palsied and blind.

2. 3.2 Government Policy and National Plan Towards Persons with Disabilities

   The Government began addressing the needs of PWDs by enacting legislative measures which was first seen in 1982 with the passing of the "Accessibility Law (BP 344). However the most significant legislation for PWDs was in 1992 when President Fernando Marcus signed Proclamation No. 125, which mandated that the Republic observe and implement The Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons. The Proclamation stated the following:

   "All Heads of Departments, Chiefs of Bureaus, Offices, Agencies and Instrumentalities of the National Government, including officials of local governments, are hereby instructed and directed to develop and implement plans, programs and activities based on the Agenda for Action for the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons in consultation with people with disabilities.

   The National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, including its member agencies, is hereby directed to give the Agenda for Action the widest possible dissemination to the private and public sectors. It shall coordinate and monitor all programs, projects and activities pertaining to the Agenda for Action.

   Non-government organizations and self-help groups among the disabled, as well as professional associations are hereby enjoined to take full cognizance of the Agenda for Action for Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons and to fully cooperate in the attainment of its goals, objectives and activities by gearing their policies and aligning their programs to said Agenda."

   As a result, The National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons(NCWDP) was designated as the lead agency in observing the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons. In line with its mandate, the council, including its member agencies was directed to disseminate the Agenda for Action as widely as possible to the private and public sectors nationwide. It is also given the responsibility to coordinate and monitor all programs, projects and activities pertaining to the Asian and Pacific Decade Agenda for Action.

   A Philippine Plan of Action for the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons of Disabled Persons was developed and adopted to set into motion the directions for implementation of programs and services by the concerned sectors. It is within the context of the current development efforts enunciated in Philippines 2000 or the Philippine Medium Term Development Plan. This plan ensures full participation and equalization of opportunities for PWDs. It seeks to institutionalize the prevention of the causes of disability and the rehabilitation of disabled persons within the Decade of Disabled Persons in the Asian Pacific region. Strategies for the program and project implementation are included in the policy statements. In formulating the Philippine Plan of Action, the following issues and problems have been given priority attention:

   1. Absence of a comprehensive and scientific compilation of baseline data which can serve as a basis for sound policies and effective ­programs to reduce the incidence and prevalence of disabilities, as well as for equalization of opportunities. Good planning and management policy should be based on accurate statistical data;
   2. Inadequate implementation of existing laws and policies due to the absence of a vigilant monitoring system and the indifference of the government officials in enforcing them due to the low priority assigned to issues on disability;
   3. Lack of effort on existing mechanism designed to push for the ­implementation of current laws which are sufficient to meet actual needs;
   4. Non-availability or insufficiency of funding for NGOs, lack of programs and, in most cases, low prioritization of disability-related programs;
   5. Limited outreach of existing programs, which do not yet adequately cover rural areas where 75 per cent of the people with disabilities are located; the situation is further aggravated by shortcomings in the devolution process of some vital government operations from national to local levels, as a result of which crucial services have been at a standstill;
   6. Absence of a comprehensive, integrated and continuing campaign to improve public awareness, especially of the families of people with disabilities on the importance of the problems of disabilities and their prevention;
   7. Inadequate government regulatory activity or body resulting in the proliferation of certain NGOs that exploit people with disabilities and the general public;
   8. Lack of proper representation of disabled persons in the various legislative and executive branches at all levels of government, resulting in inadequate support services;
   9. Negative attitudes of persons with disabilities and their family members towards self-development.

   The Philippine Plan of Action contains national priorities directed towards the maximization of opportunities available to people with disabilities in all aspects of life in the community. The target goal of the Plan is to upgrade, strengthen, expand and sustain activities aimed at realizing the full participation and equality of disabled persons. In pursuit of this goal, all disability-related programs and services shall aim to:

   • Strengthen, expand and sustain programs and policies geared ­towards better access to education, health/medical, vocational/technical training, employment, social and other services;
   • Implement existing laws and enact more laws which will protect the right to full and equal participation of people with disabilities;
   • Organize grassroots associations and organizations of, and for, people with disabilities and provide venues that will involve them in the formulation of policies, development of programs and projects geared towards improving their welfare;
   • Provide self-directed, community-based services where priority must be directed towards independent living;
   • Develop the sense of responsibility of people with disabilities towards themselves, their families, their community and the environment;
   • Establish comprehensive baseline data on disability for effective ­program planning, implementation and monitoring.
4. 3.3 Government System

   There are several governmental agencies that carry out various responsibilities in the care of PWDs. The following is a summary of the Governmental agencies:

   The National Coordination Committee on Disability (NCCD)

   The National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)

   The NCCD formed the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons which is comprised of national government agencies, NGOs, representatives of organizations of PWDs, civic and cause-oriented groups. The NCWDP is the governmental agency mandated to formulate policies and coordinate the activities of all agencies, whether public or private, concerning PWDs. It is the lead agency tasked to steer the course of program development and the delivery of services to the sector and is attached to the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Figure 7 highlights the organizational chart of the NCWDP.

   Figure 7

   Organizational Chart of the NCWDP

   Description

   The Council has 64 positions and is headed by an Executive Director, assisted by a Deputy Executive Director, both of whom are presidential appointees. Of the 64 positions, 59 are filled comprising 35 females and 24 males. 11 employees or 17% of the filled positions have disabilities.

   The NCWDP is tasked to monitor the implementation of several laws to ensure the protection of PWDs civil and political rights. These laws include the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, the Accessibility Law, the White Cane Act and ILO Convention No. 159, which is concerned with the vocational rehabilitation of PWDs.

   The NCWDP is responsible for the registration of PWDs in collaboration with local governments, the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other organizations. However, the registration system has not yet been able to cover all PWDs for a variety of reasons, including information on registration has not yet been widely disseminated and there is a lack of access to public welfare offices to which PWDs could refer for assistance. Additionally, at the local levels, PWDs do not have access to NGOs or other organizations that may be able to assist them on matters such as the benefits of registration.

   Through the Proclamation No. 125, the Government tasked the NCWDP to enjoin both government and private entities to organize projects based on the policy categories mentioned in the agenda for action of the decade. Its mission and role are outlined as follows:

   Mission All PWDs are able to attain their fullest potential and to become active contributors and participants in nation building.

   Vision Provision of direction to and coordination of activities of the government, non-government and peoples organizations involved in the prevention of the causes of disability, rehabilitation, and equalization of opportunities in partnership with PWDs.

   Role Provision of policy support and technical assistance to GOs, NGOs and POs for the prevention of the causes of disability, rehabilitation and equalization of opportunities for persons with disabilities. Since it was set up in 1978, the NCWDP has become a focal point for national policy on disability issues. It also monitors and reviews policy and program implementation of government, non-government and peoples organizations for the sector. By consulting widely with GOs, NGOs and POs, the NCWDP:

   • provides policy leadership and coordination on disability issues and concerns;
   • provides support to and creates opportunities for capability-building programs for PWDs, their families and service providers.
   • advocates for a "rights-based" approach in helping PWDs and informs the public about disability concerns.
   • monitors and evaluates programs and projects for and of persons with disabilities
   • conducts researches and studies on disability concerns and maintains a data banking and referral system;
   • provides technical assistance to heads of concerns, vies and needs of people with disabilities; and
   • establish international linkages for resource generation and exchange of information and expertise

   Coordination and Monitoring Unit

   • Develops, strengthens and maintains linkages with GOs, NGOs, Local Government Units and POs in the regions including its sub-regional levels
   • Develops and establishes communication systems for its periodic monitoring and reporting
   • Gathers, consolidates, analyzes data and other such relevant information for policy formulation and program development
   • Initiates and/or provides technical assistance in the development of projects in the regions as may be assigned by the Executive Director
   • Conducts studies, investigation or validation of particular activities/projects, reports, data in the assigned regions in accordance with the Councils priorities
   • Conducts consultative meetings with implementing GOs, NGOs and POs for policy formulation and program development
   • Recommends policies concerning regional plans on disability-related matters adaptable to local standards/settings
   • Facilitates the organization of and provides technical support to RCWDPs in coordination with the DSWD, NEDA and other concerned agencies including organizations of PWDs.

   Programs Management Division

   • Plans, develops and evaluates programs and projects in support of policies formulated by the Board
   • Plans, develops and evaluates national programs on the prevention of the causes of disabilities, rehabilitation and equalization of opportunities
   • Prepares concept papers, project proposals and technical reports and other activities assigned by the Director
   • Develops and strengthens national linkages concerning the welfare of persons with disabilities
   • Conducts technical assistance through trainings and other related activities concerning disability
   • Conducts researches on disability-related areas

   Information, Education and Communication Division

   • Plans and develops/evaluates comprehensive public information programs on disability issues
   • Disseminates information through the use of publications, tri-media, audio-visual materials and other IEC projects
   • Provides IEC support to all programs and projects of the Council and concerned agencies
   • Establishes information linkages and networks
   • Technical Cooperation Center
   • Establishes, maintains linkages and networking with concerned international organizations and facilitates resource exchange on disability-related concerns
   • Plans, develops and evaluates technical cooperation programs to promote resource generation for local organizations of and for persons with disabilities;
   • Plans, develops and maintains the Councils Management Information System
   • Promotes technology transfer of current international disability trends/standards and approaches to local GOs, NGOs and POs
   • Conducts researches on international disability issues and trends in support of the Councils policymaking function.

   Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) The Department manages the social welfare services delivered to PWDs including the NCWDP. It operates three disability-related vocational rehabilitation centers, a National Rehabilitation Center and a special office for the Early Child Development Project. Figure 8 highlights specific projects for PWDs under the DSWD.

   Figure 8

   Specific Projects for PWDs under the DSWD

   Description

   The Early Childhood Development Program (ECD) The Early Childhood Development Program is jointly funded by the Government, the World Bank and the ADB. The project was implemented in 5 years, which ended in 2003. The Project is implemented by 3 agencies, namely DSWD, DOH and DECS. The DSWD is the lead agency for the implementation and is responsible for overall project management.

   Project Objectives

   • Reduction by 30% of the under-five mortality rate from the baseline value (currently estimated at over 35 per thousand)
   • Reduction by 40% in the proportion of children under six with Grade 2 or 3 underweight from the baseline value (currently estimated at around 30%)
   • Reduction by 30% in the proportion of children under six with anemia from the baseline value (currently estimated at around 50% among infants)
   • Increase to 90% in proportion of children aged 12-18 months fully immunized from the baseline value (currently estimated at under 85%)
   • Improvement in a combined index of child development (motor and cognitive skills) among children under six (indicator to developed in baseline study)
   • Increase in completion rate from Grade 1 to 70% of Grade I entrants from the baseline value (currently estimated at 50%)
   • Increase to 75% in proportion of total children aged 3-5 in targeted municipalities attending day-care centers (currently estimated at under 60%)
   • Establishment of functioning PEM program in 50% of municipalities/cities by 2003
   • Establishment of active Child Development Workers in 50% of municipalities/cities by 2003
   • Implementation of ECD sub-projects in 90% of targeted municipalities by 2003

   Project Benefits and Beneficiaries The province wide Project activities will provide ECD services to about 2.7 million children per year in the targeted regions. The school-based ECD interventions will benefit about 2.4 million school entrants. By the end of the Project, a targeted 100,000 children will have benefited from integrated ECD services from birth to Grade I. The Local Government Units sub-project will target poor families and reach approximately 1.3 million preschoolers.

   Vocational Rehabilitation Training Centers The DSWD provides training and employment to the sector through its National Vocational Rehabilitation Centers, which are located throughout the country along with providing Rehabilitation Sheltered Workshops in various parts of the country. According to the ADB, a total of 2,587 PWDs were trained by these facilities as of 2000.

   Department of Health (DOH) The Department has implemented the Integrated Community Health Service Program for the prevention of disabilities and management of special hospitals. It also operates the Collaborating Center for Disability Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation (CoCen for DPTR) which provides accessible rehabilitation and other health services to PWDs. The Department has recognized that approximately 10% of the total population suffers from some form of disability and that approximately only 2% have access to rehabilitation services, primarily, because the services are mainly available in clinics and hospitals located in urban areas. The Cocen for DPTR creates a link between PWDs, the DOH and other governmental agencies, NGOs and local governments to work together in promoting the general welfare of PWDs. Some key interventions of the Cocen for DPTR are as follows:

   • Improve access to quality health and social services
   • Upgrading of facilities and services in all DOH retained hospitals, provincial and district hospitals and rural health units
   • Establishing Community-Based Rehabilitation Program in all Local Government Units
   • establishing linkages to other government and non-government organizations
   • Increase knowledge/awareness on disability prevention, treatment and rehabilitation
   • Creation, reproduction and dissemination of IEC materials
   • Design and implement social marketing strategies for the utilization of services of the CoCen and for the adoption of CBR by Local Governmental Units
   • Development of human resource development program for health professionals, volunteer health workers, family members and program beneficiaries
   • Provide training activities for Local Governmental Units on CBR & other skill courses
   • Provision of grants for proposals & opportunities for presentation of papers
   • Increased access to a comprehensive and quality health services and health information
   • Increased knowledge and awareness on disability prevention, treatment and rehabilitation

   The Department of Health also operates the National Orthopedic Hospital and Rehabilitation Medical Center, which is a 700-bed center established in 1945.

   Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
   The DOLE provides employment opportunities to trained and qualified PWDs. The Bureau of Local Development under the DOLE, has been mandated to:

   1. Formulate policies, standards and procedures on productive manpower resources, development, utilization and allocation;
   2. Establish and administer a mechanism for the effective allocation of manpower resources for maximum employment and placement;
   3. Develop and maintain a responsive vocational guidance and testing system in aid of proper human resources allocation;
   4. Regulate and supervise private sector participation in the recruitment and placement of  workers  locally  under such rules and regulations as may be issued by the Secretary;
   5. Establish and maintain a registration or work permit system to regulate employment of aliens;
   6. Develop and maintain a labor market information system in aid of proper manpower and development planning;
   7. Formulate employment programs designed to benefit disadvantaged groups and communities; and
   8. Perform other functions as may be provided by law.

   In order to adhere to its mandate as provided for by the Magna Carta legislation, which is "To assist in the integration of PWDs in the mainstream of society, through training and employment.", the DOLE prescribes to the following:

   Skill Map A national registry of PWDs shall be established and a map skills showing the distribution of PWDs by area, type of disability, age, sex, skills, educational attainment, work experience and other demographic characteristics shall be prepared. This will help define appropriate strategies as well as specific assistance that could be extended to individuals or groups of PWDs.

   Training To enhance the employability of PWDs, skills training programs suited to their interests, potentials and circumstances shall be developed and conducted in selected government and private training institutions. The PWDs shall have the option to choose from any of the following training areas:

   • Industrial skills
   • Livelihood skills
   • Entrepreneurship skills

   Wage Employment PWDs whose qualifications are suited for wage employment shall be referred to private companies or government agencies where job vacancies are made available for them. For this purpose, a skills pool of PWDs as well as list of prospective employers shall be maintained for quick reference.

   Self - Employment PWDs who are inclined towards self - employment shall be encouraged to establish their own self - employment projects either individually or in group. Technical as well as financial assistance shall be extended to them in coordination with government livelihood agencies and financing institutions and non-government organizations.

   Strategies

   • Registration of persons with disabilities.
   • Inventory/Survey of companies, government and non - government agencies, local government units and funding institutions (local and foreign) and programs for PWDs.
   • Networking and close coordination with private companies, GOs, NGOs, Local Governmental Units and funding institutions particularly those with for PWDs.
   • Maintenance of a skills pool of persons with disabilities.
   • Establishment of cooperatives, production workshops and self - employment projects.
   • Active advocacy and information campaign to awaken public conscience to the need to create employment opportunities for PWDs.
   • Development of capability of program implementers for successful program implementation.
   • Close monitoring of enforcement laws pertaining to employment of  persons with disabilities

   Department of Education (DOE) The Department of Education promotes inclusive education that mainstreams students with disabilities into regular classes. According to the ADB, the Department maintains records that indicate that on average 500 deaf and blind students are placed in regular schools annually. In 1993, the Department issued an order for the creation of a Special Education Council, while in 1999 the Department issued an order for the production of textbooks for learners with visual impairments. In 2000, the Department created Special Education Centers throughout the country. DOE oversees special education schools including the Philippine National School for the Blind and the Philippine National School for the Deaf. DOE conducts training of teachers on special needs education and according to the ADB, 2,527 teachers underwent training during 2001.

   The Department of Public Works and Highways The Department has allocated a continuing annual budget for the construction/renovation of government buildings, including primary/secondary schools to provide accessible facilities for PWDs.

   The Department of Trade and Industry The Department has Assistance Packages for PWDs including the marketing of products. Additionally, the Department has drafted the Philippine Standards for Wheelchairs Manual.

5. 3.4 Regional Cooperation

   According to the United Nations, The Philippines has initiated information exchanges with international organizations and experts concerning PWDs in order to ascertain the latest developments in the field of disability. They have fully participated in international conferences and meetings as a means of technical cooperation and support for which funds are allotted annually.

   The Republic of the Philippines has hosted the regional conference "Asia-Pacific Issues and Strategies Concerning National Coordination Committees: Towards a More Effective Implementation of the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons for Persons with Disabilities" in December 1997. The country has conducted professional exchange programs and hosted several foreign experts and professionals to conduct observation tours of rehabilitation centers and facilities.

6. 3.5 Statistics Data

   The 1990 census was the first census to gather information on PWDs in which almost 637,000 people reported having some type of disability. The 1995 census concluded that 919,292 people reported having some type of disability. In 1995, low vision was the most common type of disability representing 34.1% of all PWDs. Low vision was most common among females at 40.4% and only 28% among males.

   According to the ADB, the Department of Health conducted a survey in 1997 through the registration of PWDs, which resulted in only 469,707 people with disabilities registering with the DOH. As a result of the low turn out of registrants, the Government does not officially recognize this figure. However, in the latest census conducted in 2000, the number of Persons with disabilities did not increase significantly despite having a more defined definition of disabilities in the scope of the census. In the 2000 census 942,000 (1.2% of the total population) people reported having some type of disability. Past attempts to include PWDs in national census surveys has not been successful for a variety of reasons, including the refusal of families to declare that they have members of the household with disabilities.

   The United Nations estimates that there are approximately 6.8 million Filipinos who have some form of disability, either physical, sensory or mental. This means that one person out of 10 is estimated to have a disability. Some 75 per cent of people with disabilities live in rural or semi-urban areas and the remaining 25 per cent in the urban areas.

7. 3.6 Law and Legislation

   The Magna Carta for Disabled Persons was a landmark piece of legislation that was passed in 1992. It provided for the rehabilitation, development and provision of opportunities towards self-reliance of PWDs and their integration into the mainstream of society. However, there have been other major pieces of legislation that were passed before the Magna Carta in order to attain full participation and equality of PWDs with disabilities.

   Care and Protection of Disabled Children ( C.A. 3203) The Act was passed in 1935 and mentions the rights of every child in the Philippines to live in an environment conductive to his physical, moral and intellectual development and the duty of the government to promote the full growth of every child.

   Accessibility Law (Batas Pambansa Blg. 344) The Accessibility Law was passed in 1982 in order to enhance the mobility of people with disabilities by requiring certain buildings, institutions, establishments and public utilities to install accessible facilities and other devices, including transportation and communication devices.

   Amendments to the Accessibility Law were conducted through the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) which were amended to increase the penalty for violations while providing stricter identification of specific individuals and offices liable for violations. The amended IRR also provides for the accessibility requirements with regard to public transportation, which was not included in the original IRR.

   White Cane Act (R.A. 6759) The White Cane Act was passed in 1989. For the purpose of raising public awareness of persons who are blind, the Act provides that the 1 st day of August each year is declared "Whit Cane Safety Day". Through promoting the recognition and acceptance of the "white cane" as a symbol of the need of blind persons for specific assistance and as a reminder of the individuals duty to care for and provide respect to PWDs.

   Child and Youth Welfare Code (Presidential Decree No. 603) The decree was made in 1995 and provides that among others, that "children with emotional disabilities or with difficulties in social adjustment shall be treated with sympathy and understanding, and shall be entitled to treatment and competent care; and children with physical and mental disabilities shall be given treatment." Additionally, it provides for the creation of special classes in every province and if possible, special schools for persons with physical, mental, emotional disabilities and the specially gifted.

   The Economic Independence of Disabled Persons Act (S.B. 1730) The Act was passed in 1999 and requires that all governmental agencies, instrumentalities and government owned and controlled corporations to source at least ten percent of their supplies and equipment requirements from cooperatives of PWDs that are engaged in the manufacturing and fabrication in order to support their economic independence.

   The Magna Carta for Disabled Persons (R.A. 7277) The Magna Carta outlined a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against PWDs in order to bring them into the social and economic mainstream of Philippine society. The law allowed for the shift in attitudes of PWDs from being the object of charity to a more participative partner in development. The Magna Carta ensured that the Government played a major role in enforcing its provisions on behalf of PWDs. Government agencies in coordination with NGOs were mandated to translate the provisions of the law into concrete actions that benefit PWDs allowing them full participation and equalization of opportunities in training, employment, education, housing, health services and other opportunities. (see Appendix I for the complete text of the Magna Carta)

   The passage of the Magna Carta legislation gave more impetus on the implementation of the Accessibility Law. It emphasized that full participation is a right and as such PWDs should enjoy equal access to training and employment, education, health and social services, built environments and public transport and other priority areas.

   The NCWDP, as mandated by law, is tasked to monitor and coordinate the efforts of government agencies in implementing the Magna Carta. This is achieved through its Board which is composed of departments and agencies which provides the mechanism for addressing the multifarious needs of PWDs. The Board provides the policies which are translated into programs/projects and services by individual member-agencies which also include civic organizations and representatives from the disabled sector.

   Rules and regulations have been formulated and disseminated for enforcement to concerned agencies through advocacy campaigns, such as orientation seminars, brochures, television and radio plugs.

   Tax Exemption Under the Magna Carta provisions are made for the tax exemptions and benefits for employers of disabled persons and those that provide accessibility facilities in the work place. The following provisions are included under Title Four of the Magna Carta Act under Section 42:

   1. Any donation, bequest, subsidy or financial aid which may be made to government agencies engaged in the rehabilitation of disabled persons and organizations of disabled persons shall be exempt form the donors tax subject to the provisions of Section 94 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC), as amended and shall be allowed as deduction from the donors gross income for purposes of computing the taxable income subject to the provisions of Section 29 (h) of the Code.
   2. Donations from foreign countries shall be exempt from taxes and duties on importation subject to the provisions of Section 105 of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines, as amended, Section 103 of the NIRC, as amended and other relevant laws and international agreements.
   3. Local manufacturing of technical aids and appliances used by disabled persons shall be considered as a preferred area of investment subject to the provisions of Executive Order No. 226 otherwise known as the "Omnibus Investments Code of 1987" and, as such, shall enjoy the rights, privileges and incentives as provided in the Code.
8. 3.7 Social Services

   The DSWD and the NCWDP are the lead agencies tasked to implement programs and activities to address the needs of PWDs. The regional committees for the welfare of disabled persons are mandated by law to work closely with local government units, NGOs and private entities in addressing issues and concerns of the disabled. As part of the governments health sector reform agenda, under the Philippine Health Insurance System (Philhealth), PWDs can apply for Philhealth insurance coverage through their organization accredited by the DSWD or the NCWDP. The DSWD pays for the premium or mandated contribution of PWDs who cannot afford the cost. PWDs who are employed or who have the resources to pay prescribed annual premiums, can participate in the private health insurance coverage provided for by Philhealth. Most PWDs utilize the publicly available health service due to the affordability and flexibility of payment. Additionally, the Philippine Social Security System (SSS) also includes PWDs in its membership, provided they are able to pay the prescribed monthly contributions.

9. 3.8 Medical Services, Rehabilitation and Assistive Devices

   Assistive Devices The DSWD, NCWDP, the Department of National Defense along with local government units have augmented funds to provide a limited subsidy for the purchase of assistive devices for PWDS who cannot afford the cost of such devises. There are 16 government organizations and 10 NGOs that produce assistive devices and train PWDs how to use them. The NCWDP developed a Catalogue of Assistive Devices in 1996 that is used by relevant governmental agencies as well as NGOs. Additionally, the Department of Trade and Industry has drafted the Philippine Standards for Wheelchairs Manual.

   The NCWDP has established workshops on the manufacturing of assistive devices by providing funds and technical support, while conducing counseling sessions and seminars to motivate PWDs to use assistive devises. Additionally, the NCWDP has conducted research and development on durable and inexpensive assistive devices that can be produced using indigenous materials.

   Rehabilitation According to the ADB, there were approximately 44 regional and provincial hospitals throughout the country in 2000, that had established rehabilitation units. Katipunan ng Maykapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI) operates and maintains 60 community-based rehabilitation centers for children with disabilities 0-14 years old, with a focus on providing rehabilitation and pre-school training. The facilities are owned and operated by PWDs with the help of over 100 professional staff. (see Section 3.13 for more information on KAMPI)

10. 3.9 Community Based Rehabilitation

    The community-based rehabilitation (CBR) approach is widely accepted and used in providing services to PWDs, due to the limited number of hospitals equipped with rehabilitation units. The NCWDP developed the Philippine Handbook on CBR in 1993 and was disseminated to relevant parties in 1995. CBR has been integrated in medical degree courses in selected universities, including the state-owned, University of the Philippines.

    The Government developed a comprehensive national CBR program in coordination with Christoffel-Blinden Mission (CBM). It was piloted in one municipality prior to its national implementation. The program utilizes a multi-sectoral approach in the delivery of services to PWDs with the local government units as the lead implementing agency. It also includes PWDs in the planning, implementation and evaluation of CBR projects.

    The project Breaking Barriers Philippines (BBP) was launched after a series of consultations between officers of KAMPI and the Danish National Society of Polio and Accident Victims. The project resulted from the realization that due to inadequate government services, PWDs were in need of services.

    The BBP project provided free comprehensive physical and occupational therapy to children with disabilities. To properly deliver services to children, five Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Centers (STAC) were established in strategic areas around the country. The STACenters was designed to serve as a venue whereby children with disabilities could receive rehabilitation and related services pertinent to their development. The program provides low-cost and comprehensive rehabilitation services to disabled individuals in rural areas of the country. According to Venus M. Ilagan, President of KAMPI, over 7,000 children with disabilities have received rehabilitation services through these centers.

    BBP has also provided livelihood assistance to more than 70 grassroots PWD organizations. Most of the livelihood projects undertaken involved micro-lending, agriculture and small-scale businesses.

    KAMPI has actively participated in government programs and projects implemented by agencies such as the Department of Health, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of Education. KAMPI was tasked by the NCWDP to motivate PWDs and their organizations to participate in the government-initiated CBR Demonstration Area while monitoring the human rights situation of PWDs.

11. 3.10 Independent Living Movement

    The Philippines does not currently have a formal Independent Living movement. However, the first Asia-Pacific Workshop on Independent Living was organized in the Philippines in 1994.

12. 3.11 Public Awareness

    The Government has established an annual National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (in July), as a vehicle for the promotion and advocacy of disability issues, which is held every third week of July. Other annual observances include:

    • Mental Health Week
    • Autism Week
    • Deaf Awareness Week
    • Eyesight Conservation Week
    • Mental Retardation Week
    • White Cane Safety Day
    • International Day of Disabled Persons

    The Government has also conducted Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns to generate awareness in order to effect behavioral modifications on the public perceptions of disabilities and PWDs. As part of this effort, the Government supports a regular weekly broadcast on the following radio programs that are aired nationally. These programs are anchored by PWDs and focus on disability issues:

    • Akoy lkaw rin, (one hour);
    • K-Forum, (two hours);
    • Mano-mano, (one hour).

    The Philippine Postal Corporation issued commemorative stamps on the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons in 1998, while various disability-related publications are distributed and trade fairs and bazaars for products of PWDs are held in the country. Job fairs and employment ‘talk-shops are held throughout the country to promote the employability of PWDs. Annual trade fairs showcasing products made by PWDs have also been conducted in the countrys largest shopping centers.

13. 3.12 Sports

    A National Sports Association of PWDs was organized called PHILSPADA-Philippine (Sports Association of Differently-Abled), which has won honors in international competitions. PWDs are included in the Philippine National Games, which is a national Olympic style sports event to showcase the potential of PWDs as world-class athletes. Additionally, students with disabilities are included in the Palarong Pambansa, which is a national school based sports competition.

    The Deaf Sports Philippines, Empowering Filipino Deaf through Sports was founded in 1998. They have organized two National Olympic Games for the Deaf, participated in the National Capital Region Sports League and the World Olympics for the Deaf. The Deaf Sports Philippines is also under the supervision of the Philippine Sports Commission and is considered as one of their flagship projects designed for people with specific disabilities.

    The Philippines will host the third ASEAN Para Games in 2005 and attended the 2 nd ASEAN Para Games in Viet Nam in December 2003, winning 2 Gold medals, 15 Silver medals and 21 Bronze medals from 38 Filipino participants.

Biwako Millennium Framework Seven Priority Areas:

1. 3.13 Self-help Organizations of persons with disabilities and related family and parent associations

   According to the NCWDP, there are approximately 208 self-help groups in different regions of the Philippines undertaking livelihood activities such as canteen operations, metal and handicraft centers, tailoring, dressmaking and micro-lending.

   KAMPI is the National Federation of Organizations of Persons With Disabilities in the Philippines. It is a federation that serves as a network for self help, cross-disability, grassroots organizations of PWDs in the Philippines. KAMPI was established during the 2nd National Congress of Persons With Disabilities in July 1990 with an initial membership of 11 chapters from 7 provinces. Since then, KAMPI has expanded to its present membership of 236 chapters covering 59 provinces, 51 cities and 109 municipalities. KAMPI was organized to serve as the network that would give PWDs a voice in pushing for the implementation of relevant programs and policies for the sector. KAMPI, through its programs and services, was envisioned to serve as a major force that would ensure the productive integration of its individual members into mainstream society.

   KAMPIs mandate is to advocate for the needed changes in attitudes, policies, and practices to achieve a society where PWDs have equal opportunities for full participation in all aspects of society.

   Objectives:

   • To establish organizations of PWDs nationwide that would effectively network programs, projects, information and services for the sector.
   • To strengthen the national network of disabled persons organization through human resource development and leadership training programs.
   • To enhance and promote self reliance through skills development and training programs.
   • To create a strong national movement that would make society accurately aware of the problems, needs and the rights of the disabled through advocacy campaigns.
   • To advance the status of the disabled through the implementation of national and local programs, participation in regional and international endeavors of the Disabled Peoples International (DPI) and other organizations promoting disability issues and concerns.
   • To disseminate information through a regular information and quarterly news bulletin.

   Breaking Barriers for Children (BBC) is the largest ongoing project of KAMPI. A follow-up to the Breaking Barriers-Philippines Project, it aims to provide free comprehensive rehabilitation to indigent children with disabilities. In addition, it provides social services and family support. The Breaking Barriers-Philippines project was established with the cooperation of the Danish Society of Polio and Accident Victims (PTU). Implemented from 1995 to 1999, the project provided free comprehensive rehabilitation and services to some 2,520 poor children with disabilities in the country. This project paved the way for the establishment of five Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Centers throughout the country. (see Section 3.19 for more information on Breaking Barriers Philippines)

2. 3.14 Women with Disabilities

   The ABILIS Foundation of Finland and KAMPI have collaborated in creating a program to empower women with disabilities. The project, DAWN-Philippines, is known as the Differenlty-Abled Womens Network (DAWN) which is a national coalition of women with disabilities wanting to serve as a catalyst for change in the Philippines. DAWN is a womens group whose specific purpose is to ensure that the concerns of grassroots women with disabilities will be consistently and consciously made part of KAMPIs national agenda for PWDs. KAMPI has continued to develop the leadership potentials of young women-members in KAMPIs grassroots organizations, as evidenced by the establishment of the 1st National Leadership Institute for Women with Disabilities.

3. 3.15 Early Detection, Intervention and Education

   Early Detection/Prevention The Department of Health along with the private sector and other governmental agencies, have conducted information campaigns to prevent causes of disabilities. The following are specialized programs for preventive measures:

   • Immunization/vaccinations
   • Newborn screening
   • Free distribution of Vitamin A capsule supplements
   • Iron Tablet Supplementation
   • Iodized Oil Capsule supplementation
   • Local Production of Iodized salt
   • Mother and Child Care Program
   • Primary Health Care, through Pre-natal and Post Natal Care

   Through the Department of Social Welfare and Developments local offices, local government units undertake programs towards the prevention of the causes of disabilities, through nutrition programs and classes on food preparation, responsible parenthood, supplemental feeding programs and classes for caregivers in the identification and screening of cataracts for referral to proper service providers. Additionally, training is provided to community health workers, parents, and paramedic professionals on preventive pediatrics and genetic counseling.

   Health centers under the supervision of local government units provide medical services for the early intervention of diseases. The centers conduct training and educational programs on proper nutrition, hygiene and medical care. Community health professionals are trained on preventive pediatrics and genetic counseling for early identification, management and prevention of congenital impairments in children.

   Education The Department of Education promotes inclusive education and trains teachers in special education and in handling children with disabilities in order to complement existing special education teachers. Some NGOs also promote training programs for teachers through a Mobile Special Education Training Program in order to reach teachers outside of urban areas. The Department of Education has also developed special education curriculum for training regular teachers along with the inclusion of subjects on disability in elementary, high school and college curriculum.

   According to NCWDP, a total of 136,5234 children with disabilities were enrolled in Elementary and Secondary schools (both private and public schools). Additionally, the DSWD has initiated the Continuing Education without Barriers (TAWAG) program, which was developed to enhance the physical, social, mental and psychological functions of children and out-of-school youth with disabilities through their integration into day car services or special and regular schools. According to the ADB, the TAWAG program is reported to have provided services to 1,322 children since its inception.

   The NCWDP has also developed resource materials for the community-based special education program for the blind and deaf who are out of school, including children with autism. Through the provision of funding assistance, the NCWDP has provided scholarships to deserving students with disabilities by utilizing 5% of the private education scholarship fund.

   Intervention Through programs by the DSWD, NCWDP and local governmental units, health care centers have been established that provide medical services at the local level for early intervention and treatment of diseases.

4. 3.16 Training and Employment

   The Department of Labor and Employment, through the Bureau of Local Employment, has a national program that provides employment and livelihood opportunities for PWDs under the TULAY 2000 program, where skill mapping, training, wage and self employment are promoted. It is estimated by the NCWDP, that there were approximately 20,000 PWDs employed in wage and self-employment in the Philippines.

   The Department of Trade and Industry has Assistance Packages for PWDs, which was established in 2000 and provides skill and livelihood training, product upgrade, development and marketing, trade fair participation, development of entrepreneurial capability and business management skills.

   Through the Philippine National Skills Competition for PWDs of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), a program was formed in 2001 which is a national skills competition for PWDs that is integrated in the regular National Skills Competition. According to the ADB, TESDA has provided training to over 1,300 PWDs as of 2002, while granting scholarships to over 900 PWDs in technical vocational courses through the Private Education Student Financial Assistance program.

   Separate training programs for PWDs have been organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the areas of reflexology, waste recycling, bonsai growing, cut-flower and orchid growing, shell craft, weaving, mat making, cattle fattening, goat raising, and a variety of other skill based trades. PWDs who were successful in their training were provided soft loans to start their own businesses.

   Through the Republic Act No. 8759, Public Employment Service Offices were created at the municipal/city levels to assist PWDs in employment. According to the ADB, during the implementation of the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons, over 19,000 PWDs have joined the workforce in wage and self-employment up to the first quarter of 2002.

5. 3.17 Access to Built Environment and Public Transportation

   The Department of Public Works and Highways has allocated a portion of its budget to meet the accessibility requirements of public infrastructures. A special monitoring team has been organized in the Department to monitor buildings and establishments for public use on their compliance with the Accessibility Law. The monitoring team includes one or more PWDs who use the access features of facilities to determine if they comply with the specific requirements as stipulated by the law. Accessibility has also been included in the curricula of architectural and engineering courses as well as in the Philippine National Building Code of 1993.

   Seminars have been conducted by various agencies to orient "jeepney" and bus drivers on the requirements of the Accessibility Law. In larger establishments, parking spaces are designated for use of PWDs, while PWDs who are qualified, can apply for a driver's license.

   A manual on Assisting Disabled and Elderly Persons Who Travel (ADEPT) in land, sea and air transportation was developed in 1995, while training has been conducted for personnel and crew of sea, land and air transportation firms since 1995. The NCWDP has also issued 42,000 fare discount identification cards to PWDs that are supposed to be used to receive discounts from service providers. However, there is not a prescribed amount of discount for PWDs, which is determined by the transport companies. Although, not widely accepted, transport companies can offer discounts between 10-20% off the regular cost.

   The NCWDP has also ensured the installation of curb cuts in major streets throughout Metro Mania and other key cities and has also ensured the installation of corrugated lines and signage through out the light railway transit in Manila, while providing reserved seat stickers on buses and jeepneys for hire. Additionally, accessible features and facilities at all the domestic airports have also been completed.

6. 3.18 Access to Information and Communication

   A Philippine Dictionary of Signs was developed in 1999, including VHS tapes, which is used to standardize sign language for Filipinos with hearing impairments. The Dictionary was funded through a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and is circulated in schools and organizations of the deaf and other interest parties. Two national television programs in the country provide sign language interpretation, which include interpreters during national events, conferences and meetings. Closed caption television sets and films with subtitles for people with hearing impairments as well as telecommunication devices (TDD) for people with hearing impairments are available. .

   Interregional Seminar and Demonstration Workshop on Accessible Information and Communication Technologies for Persons with Disabilities. The workshop was held in March 2003 with the theme "Empowering Persons with Disabilities through IT". The event was funded by UN-DESA in cooperation with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, the United Nations Development Program and the Department of Foreign Affairs. Two documents were produced as a result of the workshop, "Manila Declaration on Accessible ICT" and Manila Accessible ICT Design Recommendations".

   Resources for the Blind Inc., (RBI) is a non profit charitable organization that was formed in 1988 to provide a full spectrum of services to blind people throughout the Philippines. Dr. Lown, Director of RBI, translated the Bible into a Tagalog (Filipino) Braille version along with other dialects as well as cassette and large print Bibles.

   According to the RBI, a half million Filipinos are blind and that the conventional methods of producing Braille materials were not adequate to meet the required needs. Through RBI's Philippine Braille Technology Center, computer technology using small computer driven Braille embossers, has aided in the production of up to one million pages of Braille a year. Through this technology and RBI's resources, they produce two magazines, Insight and Double Yum, which are the only Braille periodicals produced in the Philippines for the blind. Insight Magazine is written for blind adults and is sent out six times a year to 600 Braille subscribers and 100 cassette tape subscribers. Each issue contains tips and techniques for living with blindness, news about the latest technology for the blind, and articles about blind people who are gainfully employed. Each issue contains scripture portions in English, Tagalog, Cebuano, Hiliganyon, and Ilocano dialects. In order to encourage Braille reading skills among children, RBI produces a biweekly Braille childrens reader titled Double Yum. This magazine is sent out to 600 blind children and to classes for blind children around the country. Additionally, RBI provides approximately 5,000 Braille textbooks each year to students.

   According to RBI, specialized equipment and materials needed by blind people are not readily available in the Philippines. To help meet the needs, RBI imports many items needed by the blind including Braille writing slates, white mobility canes, talking watches, talking calculators, talking blood pressure kits, talking thermometers, Braille typewriters, and special software and hardware to allow a blind person use a computer.

7. 3.19 Poverty Alleviation through capacity-building, social security and sustainable livelihood programs

   Several poverty reduction programs have been formulated and implemented by the Government. According to the ADB, mainstream poverty reduction programs of the government however, do not necessarily address the needs of PWDs.

   In 1997, the Republic Act 8425 known as the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act was enacted. The policies set out in the Act called for an

   "area-based, sectoral and focused intervention to poverty alleviation wherein every Filipino family shall be empowered to meet its minimum basic needs of health, food, nutrition, water and environmental sanitation, income security, shelter and decent housing, peace and order, education and functional literacy, participation in governance and family care and psycho-social integrity."

   The Act provided for the institutionalization of the Social Reform Agenda, which sets out guidelines for poverty alleviation. The Act has since been revised and amended and under President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, two approaches to social reform and poverty alleviation have been outlined:

   • The use of a multi-dimensional approach as the framework in formulating poverty alleviation programs, which much incorporate elements that address the four dimensions of the Social Reform Agenda, i.e. economic, socio-cultural, ecological and governance
   • Asset reform, which must be obtained to address the inequity in the ownership, distribution, management and control over resources

   PWDs are more specifically covered under the Governments Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services, which is a program that covers sustainable livelihood programs, expansion of micro-credit/lending schemes and capability building. The Medium-Term Development Plan of the Government for 2001-2004 declares that "protecting vulnerable groups is a requisite to conquering poverty and transforming Philippine society so that each Filipino can enjoy a better and dignified quality of life". The Magna Carta for PWDs mandates governmental agencies to formulate and implement specific programs for PWDs in line with the legislation. Additionally The National Anti-Poverty Commission was created under the Office of the President, as a coordinating and advisory body for the implementation of programs embodied in the Social Reform Agenda. The sector of PWDs is represented in the Anti-Poverty Commission together with other basic sectors and government agencies.