By: Henry Salac
The City Ordinance 548, also known as the “Establishment of Community Action and Resources for Accessible Better Living (CARe-ABLE) Program for Persons with Disabilities, including Children with Disabilities and those with Special Needs in the Barangays of Zamboanga City and providing funds thereof,” was initially approved on December 17, 2020, by former City Mayor Maria Isabelle “Beng” G. Climaco. Notably, our current City Mayor John M. Dalipe played a significant role as one of the authors of this ordinance during his time as a City Councilor in 2020.
Despite four years having passed since its approval, this City Ordinance remains in a state of limbo. The primary aim of this ordinance is to establish Barangay PWD Help Desks in every community within each barangay of Zamboanga City. These help desks are intended to be located at the barangay or community premises, equipped with essential accessibility features, proper ventilation, and a comfortable environment to effectively assist Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The implementation and oversight of this City Ordinance fall under the jurisdiction of the City Social Welfare and Development Office – Persons with Disabilities Affairs Unit (CSWDO PDAU). Additionally, Field Social Workers have been tasked with the responsibility of monitoring and ensuring the proper execution of the CARe-ABLE Program within the barangays of Zamboanga City.
