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Lawyer. Walter Alava, the Regional Programs Coordinator of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), sheds light on the crucial aspects of enforcing laws regarding discounts for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Alava emphasized the importance of addressing complaints lodged against various establishments. He explained, "All establishments may have different complaints, but we coordinate with all Local Government Units (LGUs) through the Persons with Disabilities Offices because they have jurisdiction over their constituents. We work with them to investigate complaints, and if there's a violation, they have the authority to cancel the registration of the erring establishments."

When asked about the proactive efforts of the LGUs, Atty. Alava mentioned, "As of the moment, some Persons with Disability Affairs Offices (PDAOs) are taking action, but the challenge lies in the establishment of PDAO offices in all LGUs. Out of 1,715 LGUs, not all have established PDAO offices, hindering a more organized response."

Regarding the specific establishments facing complaints, Atty. Alava noted, "Usually, fast-food chains and some restaurants receive complaints, but most commonly, grievances are related to medicines and food."

He stressed the need for awareness about claiming benefits, saying, "There must be awareness on how to claim these benefits, especially for medicines and food."

Alava's advice to PWDs and senior citizens is to document and report complaints. He emphasized, "All PWDs and senior citizens should put their complaints in writing and send them to us for a more effective referral to PDAOs."

He further encouraged individuals to report to the Department of Trade and Industry or their local Persons with Disability Affairs Office.

According to the Magna Carta for Persons With Disability, PWDs are entitled to at least a 20-percent discount on certain goods and services, including food, medicines, transportation, and accommodations. They are also exempted from paying Value-Added Tax.