Manila: A party-list lawmaker on Tuesday emphasized the urgent need for the passage of House Bill (HB) 8941, which aims to improve the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWD) in the workforce. The bill, known as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, is grounded in a constitutional mandate that requires the state to uphold the rights of all citizens, particularly marginalized groups such as PWD.

According to Philippines News Agency, House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list Representative Erwin Tulfo stressed the importance of recognizing the potential and talent of individuals with disabilities, who often encounter obstacles in employment and social engagement. “We must acknowledge that more needs to be done to create a truly inclusive society,” Tulfo stated.

Tulfo, along with co-authors ACT-CIS Party-list Representatives Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo, Lone District of Benguet Representative Eric Yap, and Quezon City 2nd District Representative Ralph Wendel Tulfo, outlined the bill’s g
oals. The legislation aims to increase the current 1 percent reservation of government positions for PWD to 2 percent and mandates that larger private companies reserve 2 percent of their jobs for PWD.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for tax incentives to private corporations that employ PWD as regular staff, thereby promoting more active participation from the private sector in fostering an inclusive workforce environment.