Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 - An Act to enhance the mobility of disabled persons by requiring certain buildings, institutions, establishments and public utilities to install facilities and other devices.

CIRCULAR LETTER Series of 2003

TO         :       All Banks and Non-Bank Financial Institutions Under BSP Supervision

Subject  :      Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 - An Act to enhance the mobility of disables persons by requiring certain buildings, institutions, establishments and public utilities to install facilities and other devices

Please be reminded of the provisions of the subject Batas Pambansa Blg. 344, particularly Section 1 thereof which provides:

"SECTION 1.  In order to promote the realization of the rights of disabled persons to participate fully in the social life and the development of the societies in which they live and the enjoyment of the opportunities available to other citizens, no license or permit for the construction, repair or renovation of public and private buildings for public use, educational institutions, airports, sports and recreation centers and complexes, shopping centers or establishments, public parking places, workplaces, public utilities, shall be granted or issued unless the owner or operator thereof shall install and incorporate in such building, establishment or public utility, such architectural facilities or structural features as shall reasonably enhance the mobility of disabled persons such as sidewalks, ramps, railings and the like.  If feasible, all such existing buildings, institutions, establishments, or public utilities may be renovated or altered to enable the disabled persons to have access to them:  x     x     x"

A copy of the complete text of the law, including its implementing rules and regulations (IRR) can be accessed at the website www.unescap.org .

For your information and guidance.

RAFAEL B. BUENAVENTURA Governor