Law Summary
Declaration of Policy
- The State commits to promoting and protecting the physical, moral, and social well-being of all handicapped persons, particularly the blind.
- The law mandates the undertaking of studies on the causes behind the high percentage of blindness in the Philippines.
White Cane Safety Day
- August 1 of every year is declared as White Cane Safety Day.
- This day aims to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by blind individuals.
- The "white cane" is formally recognized as a symbol indicating the need for assistance for blind people.
- It also serves as a reminder of society's duty to care for and respect blind individuals.
Observation; Education and Information
- White Cane Safety Day is to be observed in a manner befitting its purpose.
- The Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS), the Department of Health (DOH), and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) are tasked with conducting ongoing education and information campaigns to promote the objectives stated in the Act.
Government Agencies; Rules and Regulations
- The DECS, in coordination with the DOH and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), shall issue necessary rules and regulations to effectively implement the provisions of the Act.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect fifteen (15) days after its full publication in a newspaper of general circulation.