DSWD urges public to stop using disabilities for entertainment content

TL;DR: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has called on social media users and influencers to stop using disabilities as entertainment content online.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has called on social media users and influencers to stop using disabilities as entertainment content online.
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said imitating or mocking persons with disabilities (PWDs) is disrespectful and reinforces discrimination.
The agency made the statement after the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) condemned the “Emily Blind Prank” trend on TikTok, where users pretend to be blind for cash prizes.
9442, which bans public ridicule and humiliation of PWDs,” the NCDA said.
She urged everyone to be responsible online, promote inclusion, and report any content that mocks or disrespects persons with disabilities.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has called on social media users and influencers to stop using disabilities as entertainment content online.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said imitating or mocking persons with disabilities (PWDs) is disrespectful and reinforces discrimination. The agency made the statement after the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) condemned the “Emily Blind Prank” trend on TikTok, where users pretend to be blind for cash prizes.

“These videos mock disability and violate Republic Act No. 9442, which bans public ridicule and humiliation of PWDs,” the NCDA said.

Dumlao also reminded the public that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed agencies to strengthen programs that empower PWDs. She urged everyone to be responsible online, promote inclusion, and report any content that mocks or disrespects persons with disabilities.

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