DSWD, NCDA: Don’t fake disabilities for social media content

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) on Thursday called on the public to refrain from using “disabilities” in creating entertainment content or riding on trends on social media.

The DSWD urged netizens and influencers not to ride on the “Emily Blind Prank” trend on TikTok, in which netizens, including children, feign blindness for a potential reward or attention.

“The DSWD appeals to all social media users and influencers to exercise compassion and sensitivity in producing online content. Imitating persons with disabilities (PWDs) is already a form of mockery that reinforces disrespect and discrimination towards the concerned vulnerable group,” DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said in a statement.

She stressed that under the whole-of-society approach, all sectors must work together to advocate for and empower PWDs.

The DSWD spokesperson urged the public to report any form of content or incident that mocks PWDs, such as those riding on the “Emily Blind Prank” trend, to the NCDA, its attached agency.

“We urge the public to become responsible social media users. Let us use the platform and your influence to promote inclusion, raise awareness, foster respect, and help persons with disabilities to overcome the barriers that hinder their full participation in society,” she said.

In a separate statement, the NCDA voiced its strong opposition to the “Emily Blind Prank” trend on TikTok and other social media platforms.

It said the trend encourages netizens to pretend to be blind for rewards or attention, which is very disrespectful and harmful to PWDs.

The NCDA noted that more Filipino TikTok users are taking part in this trend and warned that they risk violating Republic Act 9442 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.

“Under this law, any act that subjects persons with disabilities to shame, humiliation, or scorn – whether in public spaces or online platforms is punishable. The NCDA reminds all content creators, parents, and platform moderators that digital content is not exempt from accountability,” the NCDA said.

The NCDA urged the public to report such content and send documentation through the government agency’s official channels.

“Disability is not a costume. It is not a challenge to be faked for entertainment. These prank videos diminish the gravity of what it means to acquire a disability or fight through illness,” it said.

The NCDA added that such videos “make fun of the real fundraising efforts by persons with disabilities and their families, who face financial hardship in seeking care, rehabilitation, and support.”

It stressed that living with disabilities is a long and difficult journey fraught with emotional and financial challenges.

“When creators portray blindness or disability without understanding, it minimizes these experiences and suggests that asking for help is just for show,” they said.

“Let us protect the dignity of persons with disabilities and uphold the values of inclusion, respect, and human rights,” the NCDA added. — JMA, GMA Integrated News