DSWD, NCDA condemn film 'Ngongo' for discriminatory portrayal of PWDs

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and its attached agency, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), on Friday strongly condemned the ongoing production of the movie “Ngongo”, citing its use of derogatory and discriminatory language against persons with disabilities.

“The DSWD condemns any depiction that disrespect persons with disabilities. Ang anumang uri ng diskriminasyon, sa pelikula man, sa media, o sa komunidad, ay hindi natin dapat tino-tolerate,” DSWD spokesperson Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao said.

The NCDA earlier released a statement expressing its “deep concern and strong condemnation” over the film’s title and the promotional materials circulating online. The agency said such portrayal violates the principles of dignity, respect, and inclusion protected under the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities (RA 7277), RA 9442, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

“The NCDA firmly maintains that disability should never be exploited for entertainment value or comedic effect. Media and creative industries play a crucial role in shaping public attitudes, and it is imperative that portrayals uphold human rights standards and support efforts toward a more inclusive Philippines,” the NCDA statement read.

Echoing NCDA’s position, Dumlao stressed that the DSWD denounces any form of media content that demeans or harms persons with disabilities, noting that media representation is an essential component of the broader advocacy for inclusion.

“We call on the creative industry to recognize that respectful and accurate portrayal is a responsibility. Mahalaga ang representasyon at malaki ang papel ng media rito. Pero kung gagamitin natin ang kapansanan bilang biro, hindi lamang ito nakasasakit, pinapalakas pa nito ang maling paniniwala at pagtingin ng lipunan,” she said.

The DSWD vowed continued support for NCDA’s efforts to strengthen public awareness and uphold the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

“Magkatuwang na naninindigan ang DSWD at NCDA na protektahan ang dignidad ng sektor ng ating persons with disabilities. Hindi dapat pinapayagan ang anumang anyo ng diskriminasyon sa anumang plataporma,” Dumlao said.