Child PWDs require nearly twice the financial support as other kids

Study highlights need for disability support amid debate on parental contributions.

Filipino families raising children with disabilities may need to spend 40% to 80% more than those raising neurotypical, able-bodied children, according to a 2023 study, highlighting the heavier financial burden faced by families caring for children with disabilities.

The finding is once again relevant amid a rampant online debate surrounding parental support, following actor Patrick Garcia’s recent revelation that he has not seen or paid child support since 2017 for his 17-year-old son Alex Jazz with actress Jennylyn Mercado.

Netizens pointed out that Garcia’s estrangement was particularly offensive in light of their son’s autism diagnosis.

The study—led by researchers from the Philippines, United Kingdom, and Australia—surveyed 2,753 families across the country and calculated costs against global measures of quality of life.

The study found that families with disabled children spent more on health expenses. Even with disability IDs and specific discounts, overall costs for childrearing and support were heavier for families of disabled children compared to those of able-bodied children due to factors like stigma and accessibility.

“For example, a household with a child with disabilities might not have costs associated with formal education if there is no school providing the support and assistance required for her/his attendance. Or a child might not be attending school because stigma or bullying makes attendance impossible,” the researchers wrote.

Though the mounting costs and significant decrease in quality of life applied largely to lower-income families, the researchers nonetheless stressed that the stigma and lack of services for disabled children extended to all social classes.

“Even with a higher income, a family may face difficulties or may not be able to access services for their child,” the study said.

In the Philippines, there are no laws outlining specific parental responsibilities for children with disabilities. The Family Code of the Philippines notes the legal obligations of parents to their children, and the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons lists government obligations to persons with disabilities, but these laws do not contain provisions specific to children with disabilities.

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