GENERAL SANTOS CITY – To ensure the proper delivery of services for persons with disabilities (PWDs), the provincial government of South Cotabato said it is mulling the creation of a new office that would cater to the sector.
Haide Agustin, acting head of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), said the preparatory works are underway for the establishment of the Provincial Disability Affairs Office (PDAO).
Agustin said the planned office will primarily serve the needs and concerns, as well as lead the implementation of programs and projects for PWDs.
She said the move is in compliance with Memorandum Circular 2010-103 issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which provides for the “Establishment of Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) in every Province, City and Municipality pursuant to RA (Republic Act) 10070.”
RA 10070 mandates the establishment of institutional mechanisms in local government units to ensure the implementation of programs and services for PWDs. It amended Section 40 of RA 7277 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.
“The creation of the PDAO will be a great help in addressing the needs of our PWDs, and in monitoring the programs for the sector,” Agustin said, adding, a focal person, preferably an experienced PWD, will be designated to oversee the body. (Frances Kristine Alvero)
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