The government of the Philippines has created important laws to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Outlined below are some of the most significant laws that promote inclusion, accessibility, and equal rights for all.
Republic Act No. 11106
Filipino Sign Language Act Declares Filipino Sign Language (FSL) as the national sign language of the Filipino Deaf and the official language of government in all transactions involving the Deaf. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 10931
Students with disabilities may receive allowances for essential disability-related expenses, including support services and supplies reasonably incurred. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 10410
Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Act Recognizes ages 0–8 as critical for development and strengthens early education systems, supporting early intervention for children with developmental needs. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 10754
Expanded Benefits for PWDs Grants value-added tax (VAT) exemption for PWDs and expands benefits and privileges under the Magna Carta. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 10533
Encompasses kindergarten, elementary and secondary education as well as alternative learning systems for out-of-school learners and those with special needs. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 10524
Employment Opportunities for PWDs Expands reserved positions for PWDs in government and encourages private sector inclusion. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 10366
Accessible Polling Places Act Authorizes COMELEC to establish precincts for PWDs and senior citizens to ensure safe and accessible voting. 👉 Click Here
Ordinance No. 38, Series of 2012 (Suspended)
Creation of PDAO in Dumaguete Establishes a Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) in Dumaguete City to implement local disability programs. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 10070
Institutional Mechanism for PWD Services Mandates the creation of PDAOs in every province, city, and municipality to ensure consistent delivery of services for PWDs. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 9442
Additional Privileges and Protection Amends RA 7277 to include discounts, incentives, and protection against ridicule and discrimination. 👉 Click Here
Republic Act No. 7277
Magna Carta for Disabled Persons The cornerstone law that guarantees the rights of PWDs to education, employment, health, and social services. 👉 Click Here
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)
The CRPD promotes equality and protects the rights of persons with disabilities, including Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. It references sign language and accessibility for the Deaf seven times across five key articles:
The Philippines ratified the CRPD on April 15, 2008.
Alone We Can Do So Little; Together We Can Do So Much