Davao City Records Significant 25% Increase in Registered Persons with Disabilities
The Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) in Davao City has announced a notable 25-percent rise in registered persons with disabilities (PWDs) from 2024 to 2026. This upward trend is directly linked to expanded financial assistance and technical support initiatives implemented by the local government, reflecting a growing commitment to inclusivity and social welfare.
Government Benefits Drive Registration Growth
During a briefing with the Davao Security and Peace Press Corps on January 21, 2026, Lawyer Redendo Martinez, head of PDAO, emphasized that the increase in registrations stems from the tangible benefits provided by government programs. "Tungod aning mga benefits sa atoang government na ginahatag kani na mga discount, maong naga-increase na sila," Martinez stated, highlighting subsidies and monthly proposals from the national government as key factors.
Martinez further noted that this growth underscores the city government's ongoing support, with several businesses and establishments now actively hiring PWDs. To date, more than 200 PWDs have been successfully deployed to various sectors, including malls, fast-food chains, and other enterprises, as part of a broader employment push aimed at enhancing economic participation.
Financial Subsidies and Legislative Support
In a landmark move last October 2025, the 21st Davao City Council unanimously approved an ordinance granting an annual financial subsidy of P1,500 to all qualified PWDs in the city. This measure represents a significant step toward bolstering social protection for the sector, with funds intended to cover essential needs such as:
- Medical expenses and therapy costs
- Transportation and daily necessities
- Other critical expenditures to ease economic burdens
Councilor Lorenzo Benjamin D. Villafuerte, chair of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Social Services, reinforced that the ordinance aims to assist PWDs with medication, therapy, and other vital expenses. The legislation also imposes penalties ranging from P3,000 to P5,000 for barangay officials issuing false residency certificates or unauthorized individuals fraudulently claiming benefits.
Enhanced Benefits and Ongoing Initiatives
Beyond the city-funded subsidy, discussions are underway for an additional P2,000 cash assistance from the national government, which could further augment financial aid for registered PWDs. Currently, PWDs in Davao City enjoy a 20-percent discount on goods and services, along with VAT exemptions, ensuring more affordable access to both public and private services.
With nearly 37,000 PWDs now registered with PDAO, Martinez indicated that the supplemental budget for 2026 has yet to be announced. Aligned with council priorities for the 2025-2026 term, PDAO has proposed initiatives focused on transportation and assistive devices, which will be deliberated by the city council later this year.
Combating Fraud and Expanding Access
To safeguard the integrity of benefits, PDAO has launched a campaign against fake PWD identification cards, collaborating with partner agencies to dismantle falsification networks and file cases against violators. This effort ensures that support reaches legitimate recipients and maintains the program's credibility.
In a cultural and recreational boost, PDAO has partnered with major malls—including NCCC, SM, Gaisano, and Abreeza—to provide free cinema access to PWDs. This program, which began in March 2025, is expected to continue through 2026, offering enhanced leisure opportunities for the community.
The combined efforts of financial aid, employment opportunities, and anti-fraud measures highlight Davao City's proactive approach to supporting persons with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable urban environment.
