THE 20th Davao City Council has passed a resolution recognizing SM Prime Holdings for its pioneering initiative of granting free movie access to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The resolution was adopted during the council’s session on December 12, 2024, at the Sanggunian Panlungsod.
Councilor Jessica M. Bonguyan, chair of the Committee on Games and Amusement, proposed the resolution, praising SM Prime for its pivotal role in the implementation of City Ordinance No. 0155-23, also known as the “Persons with Disability Free Movie Privilege Ordinance.” This ordinance entitles PWDs to free movie access in theaters within Davao City.
SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier were the first establishments to implement the program, offering significant benefits to PWDs.
“This initiative by SM Prime Holdings not only promotes social inclusion and accessibility but also exemplifies corporate social responsibility and support for the welfare of PWDs,” the resolution stated.
The ordinance seeks to expand cultural and recreational opportunities for PWDs, enhancing their quality of life while promoting more inclusive practices and policies in the city.
The resolution also underscores SM’s initiative as a commendable model of corporate social responsibility, encouraging other businesses and organizations to follow suit. The local government of Davao actively supports similar efforts to foster inclusivity.
City Ordinance No. 0155-23 was approved on January 24, 2023, and signed into law by Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte on February 27, 2023.
Under the ordinance, only PWD residents of Davao City with valid identification can avail themselves of the free movie privilege.
The benefit is non-transferable, ensuring that it is exclusively enjoyed by eligible PWDs, with guardians allowed to assist in transactions if necessary. The privilege is offered on Mondays during the first screening of the day and, for blockbuster films, becomes available starting their second week of screening.
Cinemas strictly enforce a “No PWD ID, No Entry” policy to prevent unauthorized use. To facilitate monitoring, the Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) issues a movie pass booklet to eligible PWDs, which records details such as the PWD’s name, photo, address, ID number, and the number of movies availed annually.
The ordinance also requires cinemas to provide accessible seating and ensure compliance with Batas Pambansa Blg. 344, which mandates facilities for disabled individuals, including those in wheelchairs.
Falsification of PWD IDs is penalized under the ordinance, with offenders facing fines ranging from ₱2,000 for the first offense to ₱5,000 for subsequent violations. RGP
