Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is urging the public to refrain from using ‘disabilities’ as a form of entertainment content or trend on social media. ‘The DSWD appeals to all social media users and influencers to exercise compassion and sensitivity in producing online content. Imitating persons with disabilities is already a form of mockery that reinforces disrespect and discrimination towards the concerned vulnerable group,’ Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao stated.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD spokesperson issued the statement in support of the urgent call of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), an attached agency of the department, condemning the ‘Emily Blind Prank’ trend on TikTok. This trend encourages netizens, including children, to pretend to be blind for a chance to win a cash prize.
Dumlao emphasized the need for a whole-of-society approach, urging all sectors to work together to advocate and promote the empowerment of persons with disabilities. ‘President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the DSWD and other government agencies to strengthen the programs for persons with disabilities (PWDs) to ensure that they are not left behind in development and can partake in nation-building,’ she added.
The NCDA statement highlighted that these trends ‘diminish the gravity of what it means to acquire a disability or fight through illness.’ It further explained that such videos undermine real fundraising efforts by PWDs and their families, who often face financial hardships in seeking care, rehabilitation, and support.
‘These videos mock disability. They violate Republic Act No. 9442, which prohibits public ridicule and vilification of persons with disabilities. Under this law, any act that subjects persons with disabilities to shame, humiliation, or scorn — whether in public spaces or online platforms is punishable,’ the NCDA statement continued.
Under Republic Act No. 9442, acts related to the ridicule, vilification, or humiliation of persons with disabilities are strictly prohibited and are subject to criminal liability. Dumlao called on the public to report to the NCDA any form of content or incident that mocks persons with disabilities.
‘We urge the public to become responsible social media users. Let us use the platform and your influence to promote inclusion, raise awareness, foster respect, and help persons with disabilities to overcome the barriers that hinder their full participation in society,’ Dumlao concluded.
