The Republic Act No. 10754, or the Republic Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disability (PWD), builds upon the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability (Republic Act No. 7277) in the Philippines. As per the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability (2016), often referred to as the Revised PWD Law or RPWDA (2016), disability is defined and categorized into different types. This classification is critical for the identification, support, and provision of benefits and services to persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The RPWDA classifies disabilities into seven primary categories, which are consistent with international standards, such as those outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).
Below are the different types of disabilities as defined under the RPWDA (2016):
1. Psychosocial Disability
Psychosocial disability refers to conditions that affect a person’s mental and emotional health, impeding their ability to function in society. These disabilities arise from mental health disorders and psychiatric conditions such as:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Persons with psychosocial disabilities may experience limitations in interacting with others, maintaining employment, or managing daily tasks. The RPWDA acknowledges the importance of removing stigma and providing psychosocial support services and accommodations to promote inclusion.
2.Mental Disability
Mental disability is characterized by intellectual impairments that affect cognitive functioning, learning, and problem-solving. This category includes:
- Intellectual disability (formerly termed “mental retardation”)
- Developmental delays
- Learning disabilities such as dyslexia
- Autism spectrum disorder (when primarily cognitive)
Unlike psychosocial disabilities, mental disabilities pertain more to cognition and learning capacity rather than emotional or behavioral disorders. Interventions often include special education, therapy, and adaptive skills training.
3. Visual Disability
Visual disability involves partial or total loss of sight, even with corrective lenses. This may include:
- Total blindness
- Low vision or partial vision
- Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or retinopathy
Persons with visual disabilities may require aids like Braille, screen readers, white canes, and orientation & mobility training. The RPWDA emphasizes accessible public spaces, signage, and educational materials for visually impaired individuals.
4. Hearing Disability
Hearing disability refers to the partial or total inability to hear. It includes:
- Deafness (complete loss of hearing)
- Hard of hearing (partial hearing loss)
- Tinnitus or other conditions affecting auditory perception
Sign language interpretation, hearing aids, and closed-captioning are essential for accessibility. The RPWDA mandates inclusion in schools, workplaces, and media through these support systems.
5. Speech and Language Disability
This category involves impairments in communication through speech or language. Examples include:
- Speech impairments (stuttering, articulation disorders)
- Language disorders (aphasia, dysphasia)
- Voice disorders
Such conditions may result from congenital issues, neurological disorders, or injuries. The RPWDA promotes speech therapy services and alternative communication methods (e.g., communication boards or assistive devices) to support individuals with these challenges.
6. Orthopedic (Musculoskeletal) Disability
Orthopedic disability affects the bones, joints, and muscles, resulting in limited mobility or dexterity. Conditions include:
- Amputation
- Cerebral palsy
- Muscular dystrophy
- Polio-related impairments
- Scoliosis or spine-related injuries
People with orthopedic disabilities may use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, prosthetics, crutches, or walkers. Accessibility features like ramps, elevators, and adapted transportation are crucial in ensuring mobility and independence.
7. Disability Due to Chronic Illness
This category recognizes that certain chronic illnesses can cause long-term functional limitations, making them disabilities under the RPWDA. These include:
- Diabetes (with complications such as neuropathy or vision loss)
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Cancer
- Renal failure
- HIV/AIDS
- Epilepsy
The inclusion of chronic illness under disability law is significant because it acknowledges the day-to-day limitations that some conditions impose, even if they are not immediately visible. This provision ensures that individuals with chronic illness-related disabilities receive equitable benefits and protection.
Additional Considerations:
The RPWDA also recognizes that a person may have multiple disabilities, and thus, their needs may cut across different categories. Furthermore, the act advocates for reasonable accommodation, meaning any necessary and appropriate modifications that do not impose a disproportionate or undue burden to ensure persons with disabilities can enjoy and exercise all human rights and freedoms on an equal basis with others.
Conclusion:
The RPWDA (2016) is a landmark legislation that advances the rights, inclusion, and welfare of persons with disabilities in the Philippines. By clearly defining the various types of disabilities — including psychosocial, mental, visual, hearing, speech and language, orthopedic, and those resulting from chronic illnesses — the law ensures a comprehensive approach to disability services and advocacy. Through these classifications, the government and institutions are better equipped to tailor programs, benefits, and infrastructure that promote equity, participation, and dignity for all Filipinos, regardless of ability.
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