DAVAO CITY – Persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Davao City will soon receive financial support after the 21st City Council unanimously approved an ordinance granting an annual subsidy of Php 1,500.
Councilor Lorenzo Benjamin D. Villafuerte, chair of the Committee on Social Services, said the measure is intended to ease the financial burden of PWDs, particularly for expenses related to medication, therapy, and other essential needs.
“This will be for all persons with disabilities regardless of their status, unsa’y severity sa disability, apparent or non-apparent,” Villafuerte said during Tuesday’s regular session.
City records estimate around 37,000 registered PWDs who stand to benefit from the program, though the number is expected to rise as more residents register.
To qualify, beneficiaries must present proof of residency of at least three years, to be certified by their respective barangays. Villafuerte cautioned barangay officials against issuing false residency certificates, warning that violators may face penalties ranging from Php 3,000 to Php 5,000.
The ordinance also penalizes individuals who attempt to claim benefits on behalf of a PWD without proper authorization. At the same time, it provides guidelines on who may be officially authorized to process requirements for PWDs.
Villafuerte clarified that the financial assistance program will officially begin in 2027, as the subsidy was not included in the city’s 2026 budget.
“I urge all PWDs to register as soon as possible so they can avail of the subsidy program,” Villafuerte said.
The move has been welcomed as a landmark measure to strengthen the city’s support system for PWDs, ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing essential services.