DSWD warns content creators of legal consequences over disability-related remarks

• Courtesy of DSWD

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has warned content creators against making discriminatory remarks about persons with disabilities (PWDs), stressing that shaming, ridiculing, or vilifying individuals with disabilities, whether online or in public, may carry legal consequences.

The warning came following a controversial episode of the Machong Chismisan podcast, which drew criticism for remarks mocking persons with disabilities, particularly individuals on the autism spectrum.

DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said on Wednesday, Oct. 14, that individuals with mental health conditions and those experiencing psychosocial crises must be treated with dignity and respect rather than being subjected to ridicule or used for online entertainment.

“Every person who has a mental health condition or is experiencing a psychosocial crisis should be treated with dignity, respect, privacy, and utmost care. Their condition should never be used as a source of public spectacle, entertainment, or content across all digital platforms and online engagements,” Dumlao said.

The agency emphasized that content creators have a responsibility to ensure their online discussions do not violate the rights of vulnerable individuals.

“We urge all content creators to exercise responsibility in the discussing topics that make fun and violate the rights of vulnerable sectors such as persons with disabilities, whether it is apparent or non-apparent. We need to protect their dignity not only as an act of compassion but also as part of upholding their human rights,” Dumlao said.

DSWD cites disability rights law

The DSWD cited Republic Act No. 7277, or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, which provides legal protection against discrimination and public ridicule of persons with disabilities.

The agency warned that acts of shaming, ridiculing, or vilifying PWDs may be punishable under the law, including when committed through digital platforms.

The warning underscores the potential legal consequences of online content that targets individuals because of their disabilities.

Podcast episode taken down

According to the DSWD, the controversial Machong Chismisan podcast episode has already been removed, while its hosts have issued a public apology following the backlash.

The incident has also raised concerns over the responsibility of podcast hosts and other digital content creators when discussing sensitive subjects involving persons with disabilities and mental health conditions.

The Pod Network terminates ‘Machong Chismisan’ contract over disability-related remarks

Dumlao reiterated that online platforms should not be used to exploit the circumstances of vulnerable individuals for entertainment or engagement.

“Content creators, like their counterparts in mainstream media, bear the responsibility of fostering respectful and inclusive digital spaces, ensuring that all content always observe sensitivity and mindfulness on the rights of vulnerable individuals,” Dumlao said.