THE City Government has capacitated traffic enforcers in Cagayan de Oro on the traffic rules and exemptions for persons with disability (PWDs) particularly the visually impaired.
The activity was done in line with the White Cane Safety Day, an annual celebration which aims to promote and protect the physical, moral and social well-being of all PWDs.
Every year on August 1st, the Philippines celebrates the “White Cane Safety Day” pursuant to Republic Act 6759 of 1989.
It promotes recognition and acceptance of the “white cane” as a symbol of their mobility and independence; to serve as a reminder of the public to care for and accord due respect to these vulnerable persons in our society.
A lecture on the basic sighted guide techniques and an actual simulation on the use of a cane were undertaken by all the trainees, particularly the traffic enforcers.
Rolando Damaolao, Blind, Inc. president, explained that when they raise their white canes while walking, it means the blind person will cross the street.
When they hang the cane, it means that they are going to ride in a jeepney or motorela and would need assistance from traffic enforcers or drivers.
Damaolao said he hopes drivers and traffic enforcers will keep in mind the signs to effectively help PWDs, especially the visually impaired persons.
The use of the white cane was started by Bristol photographer James Biggs in 1921 after he lost his vision in an accident.
Biggs chose the white cane because it is visible to pedestrians and motorists during nighttime.