Senators renew push for stronger PWD protection

The public backlash over offensive remarks targeting Joshua “Josh” Aquino, who is on the autism spectrum, has renewed calls in the Senate to strengthen legal protection, healthcare support and accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Senators Risa Hontiveros and Erwin Tulfo said the incident involving the Machong Chismisan podcast highlighted the need to turn disability inclusion into concrete policies that protect the dignity and rights of Filipinos with disabilities.

Hontiveros pointed to Senate Bill No. 1822, or the proposed National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act, which the Senate approved on third reading in March. The measure seeks to establish a comprehensive national framework for autism care, including early detection, medical treatment, therapy, inclusive education and social protection. It has been transmitted to the House of Representatives.

Tulfo, meanwhile, cited his proposed Senate Bill No. 1405, which seeks to grant lifetime validity to identification cards issued to people with permanent disabilities, eliminating the need for repeated renewals.

He also highlighted Senate Bill No. 1830, which was incorporated into a consolidated measure, Senate Bill No. 1988, or the proposed Barrier-Free and Inclusive Tourism Act. The legislation aims to improve access to tourism destinations for PWDs and senior citizens.

The senators stressed that disability should never be used as material for public ridicule, emphasizing that discriminatory behavior can reinforce harmful attitudes and deepen the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

The controversy erupted after clips from a podcast episode featuring offensive remarks about Aquino circulated online, drawing widespread criticism. The podcast hosts subsequently apologized, while The Pod Network announced the termination of its contract with the program and removed it from its roster.

Existing legislation already prohibits public ridicule and vilification based on disability. Republic Act No. 9442, which amended the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, provides penalties for violations.

The incident has intensified calls for greater accountability among content creators and for stronger efforts to ensure that respect, accessibility and equal opportunities extend to PWDs from all walks of life.