DSWD Introduces Electric Buses for Persons with Disabilities
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has expanded its fleet by adding electric buses for safer and more comfortable transportation for persons with disabilities (PWDs). This new initiative highlights the department’s commitment to enhancing public transportation safety amid growing concerns about PWD protection.
The renewed focus on PWD safety follows a viral incident where a man with autism was reportedly abused on a public utility bus. Responding to this, the DSWD prioritized safer transit options tailored for vulnerable groups.
During a test run and inspection of the electric buses on June 17, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized the importance of these vehicles. “It’s a very comfortable means of transportation. Safe for persons with disabilities,” he stated.
Government Pushes for Safe Public Transport for PWDs
Secretary Gatchalian explained that the electric bus project aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand protection and opportunities for vulnerable communities. “Ang utos ng ating Pangulo noong nagsimula ako sa DSWD is siguraduhin na yung proteksyon natin sa mga bulnerable ay malawak na malawak. Kasama diyan yung paglunsad ng mga safe spaces o safe public transpo para sa ating mga may kapansanan,” he shared.
This initiative falls under the Persons with Disabilities-Electric Transportation Service (PWD-ETS) Project, part of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) managed by the DSWD. The program offers grants to PWD members of Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs), enabling them to buy and operate electric vehicles as a livelihood.
Empowering PWDs Through Livelihood and Safe Transport
Each SLPA comprises 115 PWD members from 10 local government units in Metro Manila. These groups collaborate with Global Electric Transport (GET) Philippines Inc. to manage and operate the electric buses.
“This is the livelihood idea they came up with, where these e-buses operate as PWD-friendly transport to ensure that our workers with disabilities have access to a shuttle service,” Gatchalian explained.
Currently, the electric buses provide shuttle services for PWD workers in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The DSWD is also coordinating with the Department of Transportation to expand the project to include commercial operations in Quezon City.
The formal turnover and blessing ceremony for the new e-buses is set for June 24.
SLP’s Role in Supporting Vulnerable Communities
The Sustainable Livelihood Program is designed to help poor, marginalized, and vulnerable groups improve their economic status by providing access to livelihood resources. The addition of electric buses for persons with disabilities not only enhances their safety but also opens up new economic opportunities.
For more news and updates on persons with disabilities transportation, visit Filipinokami.com.