Law Summary

Introduction

This Executive Order No. 417, issued by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on March 22, 2005, mandates the implementation of an Economic Independence Program aimed at enhancing the welfare and development of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Philippines, in accordance with various legal frameworks and state policies.

Policy Framework

• Legal Basis:
  • The 1987 Constitution mandates the protection and promotion of the rights of PWDs.
  • Republic Act No. 7277 (Magna Carta for Disabled Persons) emphasizes rehabilitation, self-reliance, and integration of PWDs.
  • The General Appropriations Act allocates at least 1% of the national budget for PWD programs.
  • Proclamation No. 240 outlines a national agenda for the development of PWDs from 2003-2012.

Implementation of the Economic Independence Program

• Directive:
  • All national government agencies, including government-owned and controlled corporations, are required to support the program.

Enhancement of Social and Vocational Skills

• Agencies Involved:

  • Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
  • Department of Education (DepEd)
  • Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
  • Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
  • Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)

• Key Provisions:

  • DSWD to implement a social preparation program focusing on moral values and work ethics.
  • DepEd, CHED, and TESDA to ensure access to employment through equivalency systems.
  • TESDA to create training programs for self-reliance among PWDs.
  • CDA to promote cooperative organizing among PWDs.

Market Access for PWD Products and Services

• Employment and Procurement:

  • Government agencies and Local Government Units (LGUs) encouraged to employ PWDs and procure at least 10% of their goods and services from PWD cooperatives.

• Support Mechanisms:

  • The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to develop marketing and product promotion initiatives.
  • Promotion of PWD services in government offices.

Accessible Work Centers

• Accessibility Initiatives:
  • DPWH and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) to identify unused government buildings for PWD work centers.
  • DSWD to assist in sourcing equipment and operational support for PWD organizations.

Capital for Livelihood Programs

• Financial Support:
  • Development Bank of the Philippines, Land Bank of the Philippines, and other financial institutions to provide capital for eligible PWD cooperatives.
  • Promotion of microfinance schemes tailored for PWD entrepreneurs.

Implementing Rules and Regulations

• Lead Agency:

  • The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) to formulate Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) within 60 days post-approval of the Executive Order.

• Agency Responsibilities:

  • Each concerned agency to create guidelines and integrate compliance into their annual work and financial plans.

Reporting Requirements

• Periodic Reporting:
  • Government agencies must submit semi-annual reports on the Economic Independence Program to the NAPC and the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons.

Effectivity

• Immediate Effect:
  • The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon signing.

Key Takeaways

• Executive Order No. 417 establishes a comprehensive framework for enhancing the economic independence of PWDs in the Philippines through inter-agency collaboration and market access.
• The order emphasizes skill enhancement, employment opportunities, and financial support for PWD cooperatives.
• It mandates periodic reporting to ensure accountability and transparency in the implementation of the program.
• The NAPC is designated as the lead agency responsible for enforcing compliance with the order and its guidelines.