CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy demonstrated a strong commitment to helping the residents of the city, especially those with disabilities, by providing a simple yet impactful solution.
Indigent Persons with Disability (PWD) who are certified by the City Social Welfare and Development Department and the Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) now receive a monthly allowance of P500.
The approval of Ordinance No. 2023-274, spearheaded by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez and supported by the 20th City Council, made this initiative possible.
"The ordinance aims to provide crucial assistance to indigent individuals, particularly those with disabilities, living in Cagayan de Oro," said City Mayor's Office chief of staff Shiela Lumbatan.
Lumbatan said this means that the city government wants to support those who are struggling by providing them with the assistance they need.
"By offering a monthly allowance, the government hopes to lessen the financial difficulties faced by those who are struggling financially," said Lumbatan.
This ordinance reflects the City Mayor's Office's commitment to helping people who are struggling financially and have disabilities, according to her.
She said that by offering important help and focusing on inclusivity, the government is taking important steps to make the city a fairer place and improve the lives of all residents in Cagayan de Oro.
According to the PDAO head, Ma. Liza Corpuz, only residents of Cagayan de Oro who have been living in the city for at least two years can benefit from this ordinance.
Mayor Klarex Uy's administration has consistently prioritized the needs of the PWD sector by implementing various programs and projects tailored to their requirements, said Corpuz.
City Councilor Girlie Balaba, who chairs the Committee on Social Services, actively advocated for the approval of this ordinance.
Like Lumbatan Balaba said it highlights the local government's dedication to ensuring that vulnerable groups, such as indigent PWDs, receive the necessary support to improve their quality of life.
Balaba said there are more than 2,000 indigent PWDs in the city that will benefit from the ordinance.
By instituting this monthly allowance, Mayor Klarex and his team have taken a simple yet significant step towards addressing the needs of the city's indigent PWD residents, according to Balaba.
She added that this initiative demonstrates not only their commitment to social welfare but also their understanding of the importance of inclusivity and support for all members of the community.
Additionally, Lumbatan stressed that this ordinance shows that the city cares about fairness and making sure that everyone is included.
"People with disabilities have specific challenges, and the government wants to make sure they receive the support they require," said Lumbatan.
She explained that by addressing the financial obstacles faced by indigent individuals with disabilities, the government aims to create a community where everyone feels included and has the opportunity to succeed.
