My sister, who is in a wheelchair, has difficulty accessing her classroom due to the lack of wheelchair-friendly facilities. This struggle is not personal to just our family; it affects many others here in Cebu City who rely on public buildings for education, work, healthcare, and daily activities.

In the heart of Cebu City, the bustling environment should not be a barrier but rather an inclusive space for everyone. Yet, the reality is harsh for those with mobility challenges. Despite international mandates advocating for universal accessibility, many public buildings in our city remain non-compliant.

According to a report by the World Health Organization, around 15% of the world's population lives with some form of disability, making accessibility a global challenge. Locally, the Philippine Statistics Authority notes that millions of Filipinos experience some disability, highlighting the pressing need for infrastructural changes.

The Philippine government has already laid the groundwork through the Architectural Accessibility Law (Batas Pambansa Blg. 344), but enforcement and compliance have been inconsistent. This inaction has a profound impact on the quality of life for many people in our community.

By mandating wheelchair accessibility in all public buildings in Cebu City, we can adhere to national laws and set a precedent for the rest of the Philippines to follow. Practical solutions include installing ramps, elevators, and modifying restrooms to assure ease of access for individuals in wheelchairs.

Creating an accessible environment is not just about facilities. It's about promoting dignity, equality, and independence for everyone. We need our legislators to prioritize this issue, ensuring that public spaces are accessible to all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities.

Join me in calling for the Cebu City Council and relevant governmental departments to make this crucial change. Together, we can make our city an exemplar of inclusivity and accessibility. Please sign this petition to demand immediate action for a more inclusive Cebu City.