Most buildings and public spaces in the Caraga Region are now compliant with accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities (PWDs), according to the Regional Committee on Disability Affairs (RCDA).
Accessibility in buildings and spaces is mandated by Batas Pambansa No. 344 (Accessibility Law), Presidential Decree No. 1096 (National Building Code), and Republic Act No. 7277 (Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities).
“While some structures were built before these laws took effect, most new buildings and public spaces already meet accessibility standards for PWDs,” said Joebert Tapales, president of the League of Persons with Disability Affairs Officers in the region.
Tapales added that RCDA and partner agencies regularly conduct audits to ensure compliance with accessibility requirements.
“We continue to encourage owners of non-compliant buildings to make the necessary adjustments. But the new structures in the region are now compliant as required by law,” Tapales said.
Melanie Juan, Social Welfare Officer III of the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Caraga (DSWD-13), said a series of accessibility audits will be conducted this July.
“As chair of the RCDA, the DSWD leads regular inspections of government offices and other facilities to ensure accessibility,” Juan said.
She noted that audits are scheduled for July 6 to 9 in government offices, followed by another round from July 13 to 15 at major establishments and malls in Butuan City.
Aid to PWDs
Juan also reported that DSWD-13 released assistance to PWDs in the region in 2025 through various programs and services.
A total of 2,722 PWDs received PHP18 million in aid under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program, while 125 PWD groups and associations were granted PHP25 million worth of livelihood projects through the Sustainable Livelihood Program.
About 320 PWDs benefited from the Lawa at Binhi program, receiving PHP2.4 million in assistance, while 288 PWDs were provided PHP4.3 million under the “Walang Gutom” initiative.
The agency’s flagship poverty alleviation program, Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services, also extended PHP4.1 million in aid to more than 1,000 PWDs in the region. (PNA)
