PH Embassy in Tokyo Promotes Welfare of Persons with Disabilities through 2020 Japan Barrier-Free Project

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose C. Laurel (front row, sixth from left), Deputy Chief of Mission Robespierre L. Bolivar and Embassy staff and officials joins Ms. Reina Kondo, her parents, Mr. Yamada and representatives from Altech Co. (Bengt Yamada photo)

TOKYO 07 February 2020 — The Philippine Embassy in Tokyo co-organized a briefing on the 2020 Japan Barrier-Free Project on 04 February 2020 which aimed at raising awareness in creating a more inclusive society for persons with disabilities.

The project, with the support of Japan’s Cabinet Office and Agency for Cultural Affairs, was launched in the lead up to the 2020 Paralympic Games in September 2020.

During the briefing and interview, Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose C. Laurel shared how it is crucial for persons with disabilities to have access to social services and economic opportunities, and more importantly to be able to live normal and meaningful lives with full integration in society. Ambassador Laurel also shared the efforts being undertaken by the Philippine government to promote the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the Philippines.

After a brief video message by Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan Yoshihide Suga, the audience was inspired by the heartwarming story of Ms. Rena Kondo, a 20-year old who is suffering from cerebritis contracted while she was a baby. The love and determination of her parents for her to experience life to its fullest touched those in attendance, especially in their advocacy to create a more inclusive society not only for their child but also for many others who are similarly-situated.

A barrier free-friendly company, Altech Co., also gave a briefing on its efforts to promote the welfare of persons with disabilities through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in line with its efforts to contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Altech Co. also plans to further its partnerships in the Philippines.

The 2020 Japan Barrier-Free Project was initiated by Mr. Bengt Yamada, President of Body and Brain Ltd., to promote barrier-free concept through visits by 150 disabled children to various embassies and prefectures all over Japan. A movie and book will be produced and published as a culmination of the project. END

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose C. Laurel (center) answers interview questions from Mr. Yamada. (Bengt Yamada photo)

 Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose C. Laurel (second from left) and Deputy Chief of Mission Robespierre L. Bolivar enjoy Boccia, a Paralympic sports, with Ms. Reina Kondo. (Bengt Yamada photo)

For more information, visit https://www.tokyo.philembassy.net or https://www.tokyope.dfa.gov.ph, or https://www.facebook.com/PHLinJapan/.