Sen. Bam Aquino’s commitment to support persons with disabilities (PWDs) has received a much needed lift after his measure that seeks to provide them with additional tax exemptions hurdled the committee level.

Sen. Bam’s Senate Bill No. 2713 was among the measures consolidated under Committee Report No. 199, which was reported to the plenary by the Committee on Ways and Means.

“With the measure now up for plenary deliberation, I urge my colleagues to hasten its passage so that PWDs and their families will enjoy a respite from their everyday plight,” said Sen. Bam.

In his measure, Aquino seeks to amend Sections 32 and 33 of Republic Act 7227, or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, giving PWDs exemption from paying the value added tax (VAT).

“The exemption will help them cover the costs of their personal expenses and other medical needs, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, nurses and caregivers, and learning disability tutors, among others,” said Sen. Bam.

Explaining his bill, Sen. Bam said that PWDs and families with PWD dependents worry much about daily expenses for their medicine and rehabilitation.

“Such accommodation for our PWD sector is part of our larger reform efforts in pushing for a society that is inclusive for the poor and most vulnerable sectors,” the senator said.