The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued a reminder to business establishments to adhere to the law regarding the provision of discounts and other privileges for persons with disabilities (PWDs). This comes after reports that some businesses are not accepting their PWD cards.

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(Photo from Taguig PIO)

Under Republic Act No. 10754, also known as "An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disability," businesses are required to comply with a 20% discount for PWDs. In addition, some purchases and services for these individuals are exempt from value-added tax (VAT).

DSWD Assistant Secretary Elaine Fallarcuna stated that offenders will face penalties ranging from a Php 50,000 to Php 200,000 fine or imprisonment for 6 months to 6 years. Furthermore, their business permits, franchises, or any privileges as entrepreneurs may be revoked.

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(Logo of DSWD)

RA 10754 also ensures that PWDs are entitled to educational support, discounts on basic necessities and purchases, as well as the provision of express lanes for them in all establishments.

PWDs with complaints can submit their grievances directly to the Integrated Grievance Redress Management System (IGRMS) online at this website: https://i-grs.dswd.gov.ph/

There are over 1.8 million PWDs in the country.

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(Photo from Taguig PIO)