Councilor Rodriguez slams PWD discrimination, calls for probe into car clamping incident at Pueblo de Oro

DURING the recent regular session of the 21st City Council, Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez, social services committee chair, raised concern over an alarming case of alleged discrimination against a person with disability (PWD).

The incident occurred on July 5, 2025, when a woman with an orthopedic condition, who has been a licensed driver for nearly 20 years was publicly humiliated after being told she “should not drive” and “should just hire a driver” because of her disability.

She had briefly parked on a private road near a commercial area in Pueblo de Oro to pick up documents, as no designated PWD parking space was available.

Instead of being assisted, her vehicle was clamped by personnel of the Pueblo de Oro Association of Commercial & Institutional Establishments (PACE).

They issued a so-called citation and demanded payment without providing an official receipt or showing legal authority to do so.

Councilor Rodriguez questioned the legitimacy of private entities exercising enforcement powers typically reserved for public authorities, such as clamping vehicles and issuing tickets.

Citing Republic Act No. 7277 or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, he underscored that PWDs have the right to drive and enjoy equal access to public and private spaces.

“I say this incident is not just about traffic rules or parking on private roads,” Rodriguez stated. “Kini mahitungod sa paghatag og respeto sa batakang katungod sa atong mga katawhang Kagay-anon.”

The matter has been referred to the committees on social services and on public utilities for investigation.

Rodriguez also intends to bring the issue to the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) for possible legal action. (JDO/SP)