‘PWDs, single parents should get birth certificates for free’

MANILA, Philippines — The ACT-CIS party-list yesterday vowed to push for a law that will make the acquisition of birth certificates and other government clearances free of charge to persons with disabilities (PWDs) and single parents.

Rep. Erwin Tulfo, the party-list’s first nominee, said that this would “reduce the expenses” of PWDs and single parents in seeking jobs, since these public documents are used as employment requirements, among other things.

“Instead of paying for these requirements, this will be a big help to our PWDs and solo parents, since this will give them substantial savings that they can use for other equally important matters,” Tulfo, the House of Representatives deputy majority leader for communications, added.

Under the bill, documents such as birth certificates; National Bureau of Investigation, police and barangay clearances, and even the health certificate will be given free to PWDs and single parents, according to the broadcast journalist-turned-lawmaker.

“This is because many of our PWDs have maintenance and therapy that costs substantial, too, while our solo parents are burdened by bringing up their children all by themselves, which also takes a financial toll on them,” he said.

“Any savings that they could attain would be a very big help, especially if they’re looking for employment,” he added.

At present, there is an existing law that these requirements will be free – but only for first time jobseekers.

“The bill that we will be filing in the House will make free of charge – not just for first timers – government documents that PWDs and solo parents will be needing for their employment requirements,” Tulfo said.