The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) on Wednesday expressed concern over a reported incident at a Starbucks branch in San Fernando City, Pampanga, where an 8-year-old child with autism was allegedly asked to eat outside the store due to its “no outside food policy.”

In a statement sent to the Daily Tribune, the NCDA said that while businesses have the right to enforce operational rules, these policies must not result in discrimination, exclusion, or undue hardship for persons with disabilities, particularly children who require reasonable accommodation due to medical or developmental conditions.

The council cited Republic Act No. 7277, or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, which guarantees equal opportunity, access and protection against discrimination for persons with disabilities. It said denial of reasonable accommodation, even if unintended, undermines both the spirit and letter of the law.

The NCDA noted that children on the autism spectrum may have clinically recognized food selectivity and sensory sensitivities, which go beyond simple preference. Strict enforcement of commercial policies without considering disability-related needs, it said, creates barriers that the law seeks to remove.

Following the incident, the NCDA said it will coordinate with the Department of Trade and Industry, relevant regulatory bodies and the local government of San Fernando City to review “no outside food” policies and assess how these may be aligned with disability inclusion standards.

“We emphasize that reasonable accommodation is not special treatment. It is a legal obligation and a social responsibility. Inclusion requires flexibility, awareness, and compassion,” the NCDA said.

The council also highlighted the need for systematic disability awareness and sensitivity training for frontline personnel in commercial establishments.

It called on Starbucks Philippines and other businesses to participate in structured training programs to ensure compliance with disability laws and inclusive service standards.

In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and SM Cares, the NCDA recently supported the establishment of the first sensory-friendly space at SM Mall of Asia to assist individuals with autism, sensory processing disorders and anxiety.

The NCDA stressed that compliance with disability rights laws is not optional and remains a fundamental aspect of responsible business practice.

“Inclusion is not an act of charity. It is a matter of rights, dignity, and justice,” the NCDA said.