PLDT Inc., the country’s largest integrated telecommunications and digital services provider, strengthened its commitment to promote inclusivity through a Disability Awareness and Sensitivity training, led by the company’s human resources group for its over 18,000 employees.
In celebration of United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities, PLDT and its wireless unit Smart’s #IAmAble Disability Awareness and Sensitivity webinar featured speakers from the Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI).
LCDPFI is a strategic partner of 73-year-old foundation Leonard Cheshire Disability (LCD) of UK, and works for the attainment of educational equality, economic independence, active participation, and inclusion of persons with disabilities in the country.
“This initiative highlights our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion, as we aspire to create an inclusive work environment where uniqueness is celebrated, diversity is recognized, and equal opportunities are shared,” PLDT Group Chief People Officer Gina P. Ordoñez said.
LCDPFI tackled disability classifications and paradigms in the global and local context, laws and policies, common pitfalls of private employers, and general disability sensitivity etiquette.
LCDPFI lauded the Group for the landmark initiative. “We are very happy that PLDT and Smart promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace, because we believe that no one should be left behind in all aspects of our daily lives. When we go to work or participate in community activities, persons with disabilities should have access to the same rights that are available for all,” LCDPFI Executive Director and Programs Manager Hazel Joy Borja said.
To further promote an inclusive workplace, the Group ensures that facilities and platforms address the varying needs of its workforce – from office systems that support accessibility plug-ins and bots, ramps and passenger elevators that can accommodate mobility tools, wider cubicles with support bars for employees with equipment requirements, and customized lighting fixtures for those with conditions that require natural light.
“PLDT and Smart are committed to creating a workplace that gives everyone an equal opportunity to succeed and to advance. By embracing individuality and differences, we are making a significant step towards social integration and sustainable economic development for our employees, for their families, and for the communities they serve,” said Melissa Vergel De Dios, PLDT First Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer.
The Group’s diversity and inclusion initiatives underscore its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the principles espoused by the UN Global Compact.
