Raising awareness about PWDs

CHEERS TO VERA Files for continuing to report on the state of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the Philippines and providing updates on new measures that address their plight.

VERA Files’ project “Reporting on Persons with Disabilities,” which started in January 2012, aims to encourage PWD suffrage through reports that raise awareness among the public, government agencies, and PWDs themselves.

The project gives voice to the PWDs from barangays all over the Philippines and provides a directory of organizations that cater to PWDs. It also features reports on voting measures and other bills and laws that concern PWDs.

VERA Files’ June 14 report, “Most schools used as voting precincts not PWD-friendly, audit shows,” looked into the accessibility of polling precincts to PWDs. It cited recommendations for the improvement of infrastructure as well as support services.

The report pointed out that having voting centers on ground floors doesn’t mean they are accessible. It said there should also be ramps for wheelchair users and sign language interpreters for the hearing and speech impaired.