Title
Law on Disabled Persons' Accessibility
Law
Batas Pambansa Blg. 344
Decision Date
Feb 25, 1983
A Philippine law enacted in 1983 requires the installation of facilities for disabled persons in buildings, institutions, establishments, and public utilities, and imposes penalties for violations of the law.

Law Summary

Mandatory Architectural and Structural Features

  • No license or permit can be issued without installation of mobility-enhancing facilities
  • Facilities include sidewalks, ramps, railings, and other similar structural features
  • Encourages renovation or alteration of existing establishments to improve accessibility whenever feasible
  • Government buildings, streets, and highways must include these features, overseen by the Ministry of Public Works and Highways
  • Parking areas must reserve adequate and suitable spaces for disabled persons

Provisions Relating to Public Conveyances

  • Public transportation must display posters or stickers to raise awareness of disabled persons' rights and special needs
  • Special bus stops should be designed specifically for disabled persons
  • Discrimination against disabled persons in public transport is unlawful

Rule-Making Authority

  • The Minister of Public Works and Highways and the Minister of Transportation and Communications
  • Collaborate with the National Commission Concerning Disabled Persons
  • Responsible for formulating rules and regulations to implement the Act's provisions

Penalties for Violations

  • Imprisonment from one month to one year or fines ranging from P 2,000 to P 5,000, or both
  • Applies to individuals and entities who violate the Act or its implementing rules
  • In corporations, partnerships, cooperatives, or associations, responsible officials such as presidents, managers, or administrators are criminally liable

Repeal and Effectivity

  • All inconsistent laws, orders, rules, and regulations are repealed or amended accordingly
  • The Act takes effect immediately upon approval on February 25, 1983

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