Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines Donates Wheelchairs to Support House's Barrier-Free Environment Initiative

MANILA, July 8 (CNA) -- The Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines donated 50 wheelchairs to the Philippine House of Representatives on Tuesday, in support of the House's initiative to create a barrier-free environment and assist employees, visitors, and the public with mobility issues in moving around the premises more conveniently.

The donation ceremony was held at the Philippine House of Representatives, with Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce President Hsieh Chia-chen and other chamber officials representing the donors. House Secretary-General Cheloy E. Velicaria-Garafil accepted the donation, while ROC Representative to the Philippines Zhou Min-gan was present to witness the event.

Of the wheelchairs donated, 25 were contributed by the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, and another 25 were provided by the Taiwanese enterprise Koten. Each wheelchair bears the "Love From Taiwan" logo and the flag of the Republic of China on its back.

In her speech, Velicaria-Garafil stated that the House has launched the "Diwang Yakap" (Embrace Spirit) program and the Comprehensive Care Program for Persons with Disabilities, aiming to create a more inclusive and barrier-free work environment. The first phase of this initiative involves placing wheelchairs in various locations within the House premises for use by persons with disabilities, the elderly, employees, visitors, and others in need.

She added that wheelchairs not only serve a practical purpose but also symbolize accessibility, independence, and respect for every individual. She expressed gratitude to the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines for their generous donation, which enables the smooth implementation of this program. "This donation is not just about providing equipment; it is an investment in human dignity and a demonstration of love and care."

Veliacaria-Garafil, who previously served as the ROC representative to the Philippines, specifically thanked the ROC Representative Office in the Philippines and Taiwanese businesses for their long-term support of charitable causes in the Philippines, noting that their shared values and spirit of service will have a lasting impact on society.

House Speaker Faustino Dy III also conveyed his gratitude to the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines through his Deputy Secretary-General.

Zhou Min-gan praised the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines for its continuous involvement in charitable activities over the years, highlighting the wheelchair donation as a regular annual event. He stated that it not only showcases the friendship and compassion of the Taiwanese people towards the Filipino people but also exemplifies the strong and friendly relationship between Taiwan and the Philippines.

He pointed out that while Taiwanese businesses develop their enterprises in the Philippines, they should also fulfill their corporate social responsibilities, give back to the local community, and help those in need. He believes that these benevolent acts will further deepen the friendship between the people of Taiwan and the Philippines.

Hsieh Chia-chen stated that the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines has been involved in public welfare activities for over 40 years, and the wheelchair donation is a long-standing important charitable project of the chamber. This year, it is also the first time they are cooperating with the House's "Yakap" program and the first private organization to respond to this initiative by donating wheelchairs.

She explained that "Yakap" means "embrace" in Filipino, symbolizing care and support. She expressed hope that these wheelchairs will assist House employees, their families, and members of the community in need, allowing more people to enjoy convenience and freedom of movement. (Editor: Tien Rui-hua) 1150708

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