MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Imee Marcos delivered a sharp critique of her brother’s flood control programs while advocating for a P500 monthly stipend to assist indigent persons with disabilities.

In her speech, Senator Marcos questioned the government’s priorities, pointing out that billions are spent on flood control projects with questionable effectiveness, while medicines and food rot in storage. 

She said that a portion of these funds could be redirected to provide a P500 monthly stipend for marginalized PWDs.

“If billions can be spent on flood control projects with questionable effectiveness, and medicines and food are left to spoil in storage, why can’t we allocate a portion of that to support marginalized PWDs?” Marcos said.

Marcos pointed out the limitations of the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons (Republic Act 7277), noting that it largely benefits PWDs who have the financial capacity to take advantage of its provisions.

“Although the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons provides numerous benefits and privileges, these are mostly enjoyed by those who, to a certain extent, have the necessary purchasing power,” she said.

Marcos likewise said  that the proposed P500 monthly stipend would provide critical support for the most vulnerable PWDs, helping them manage their daily expenses.

Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, Marcos noted that there were 13 million PWDs in 2020. Of these, the Department of Health identified around 593,911 as severely challenged individuals, who she believes should be prioritized for assistance.