DSWD: Mocking PWDs carries legal consequences

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reminded the public, primarily content creators, that disrespectful comments toward persons with disabilities (PWDs) have legal consequences.

The DSWD late Wednesday issued a warning after Machong Chismisan podcast hosts made comments about Joshua “Josh” Aquino, the eldest son of television host Kris Aquino, who is on the autism spectrum, in one of their episodes.

READ: Podcast hosts mock Kris Aquino’s son Josh

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The agency cited in its statement, “Republic Act No. 7277, or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, any act that shames, ridicules, or vilifies persons with disabilities, whether in public or online spaces, is punishable by law,” 

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“Exploiting a person’s disability for amusement, ridicule, or online engagement is unacceptable, as it reinforces harmful stereotypes and drives discrimination against a vulnerable group,” DSWD spokesperson Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao expressed.

Following the backlash, the podcast’s hosts issued a public apology and took down the video on their page.

Dumalo stressed that individuals who mocked PWDs must take accountability for their actions.

“We urge all content creators to exercise responsibility in discussing topics that make fun and violate the rights of vulnerable sectors such as persons with disabilities, whether it is apparent or non-apparent,” she emphasized.

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She added, “We need to protect their dignity not only as an act of compassion but also as part of upholding their human rights,” 

The DSWD then urged all content creators to refrain from tackling topics that mention PWDs, including persons in psychosocial crisis and “those who are in their most vulnerable moment”. 

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“Content creators, like their counterparts in mainstream media, bear the responsibility of fostering respectful and inclusive digital spaces, ensuring that all content always observes sensitivity and mindfulness of the rights of vulnerable individuals,” Dumlao said. /mr