MANILA — The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) has condemned the reported practice at Starbucks, Festival Mall in Muntinlupa City, where customers with disabilities were allegedly “tagged” or “marked” based on their disability types, calling the act a violation of the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities.

In a statement issued, the NCDA said the incident, which surfaced through a social media post by user mavs_004on July 21, 2025, involved staff noting the nature of customers’ disabilities as shown on their ID cards. The council described this practice as “insensitive and discriminatory,” in violation of Republic Acts 7277 and 9442.

“These actions reflect a lack of awareness and perpetuate stigma, which can further isolate persons with disabilities from society,” the NCDA said, citing the legal provisions that prohibit public ridicule and mandate the full integration of persons with disabilities into society.

RA 9442 prohibits acts of public ridicule or mockery of PWDs, whether verbal or non-verbal, and applies to all public and private establishments.

The NCDA urged Starbucks Philippines to take immediate corrective action and ensure all employees undergo sensitivity training. It also called on all businesses to uphold the rights and dignity of PWDs by fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect.

“The duty to protect the rights of persons with disabilities is shared by all institutions. Inclusion is not optional—it is a legal and moral obligation,” the council emphasized.