Uncategorized Archives ⋆ Leia Khu

How to Use Your PWD Discount on Grab Services

Posted on December 7, 2024December 7, 2024 by Leia Bartolome

Did you know that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Philippines can get a 20% discount on select Grab services like Food, Mart, and Car?

Here’s a quick and easy guide to help you apply and use your PWD discount on Grab.

This exclusive benefit is also available for Senior Citizens (SC), Students, and National Athletes or Coaches. Keep reading to find out how!

How to Apply for Your PWD Discount on Grab

Choose Your Application Type
Choose “PWD” (or the appropriate category: Senior Citizen, Student, or National Athlete/Coach) for your application.
Indicate the Services
Specify whether you’ll use the discount for Grab Food, Mart, or Car. (You can choose all!)
Provide Your Grab Account Details
Enter the phone number and email address registered with your Grab account.
Upload Required Documents
Submit clear photos or scanned copies of your valid IDs. Make sure the name on your Grab account matches the name on your IDs.
Submit the Application
Complete the process, and wait for approval, which usually takes 7–10 business days.

📌 Click here to apply for your Grab Special Discount.
Tip: Use your phone to quickly upload photos and select all Grab services to maximize your discount!

How to Use Your PWD Discount on Grab

If booking GrabCar inside Metro Manila, select either GrabCar 4-seater (PWD/SC/Student) or GrabCar 6-seater (PWD/SC/Student) from the service options.
If booking outside Metro Manila or using GrabAirport, go to Offers section and manually enter the discount code GRABPWD (or any of these codes that apply to you: GRABSENIOR, GRABSTUDENT, or GRABSPECIAL) before finalizing the booking.

Always carry and present a valid ID (e.g., Driver’s License, Senior Citizen’s ID, PWD ID, Student ID) to the driver upon entering the vehicle. Grab drivers are authorized to check and verify your ID to ensure it matches your identity and the details registered with Grab. Non-compliance may be considered fraudulent, and the code owner may face penalties from Grab according to the Terms and Conditions of special discounts.

Requirements for Special Discounts on Grab

PWDs: Must have a valid PWD ID and government-issued ID.
Don’t have a PWD ID yet?
Click here to know how to apply for a PWD ID
Senior Citizens: Filipino citizens aged 60 and above with a Senior Citizen ID or a valid ID with birthdate.
Students: Must be enrolled in a recognized school, with a valid Student ID and school registration form.
National Athletes/Coaches: Must present identification from the Philippine Sports Commission or GAAB and supporting documents.

FAQs

Can I transfer my discount or let someone else use it?
No, the discount is exclusive to your registered Grab account. However, other passengers can join your ride if you’re traveling with them.

Why doesn’t the discount apply to GrabShare?
GrabShare already offers discounted fares, so the PWD discount doesn’t stack. Opt for GrabCar (PWD/SC/Student) to avail of the full benefit.

Do I need to renew my discount eligibility?

PWD discounts are valid for three years or until the ID expires.
Senior Citizen discounts do not expire.
Student and Athlete/Coach discounts are valid for one year and can be renewed.

Take full advantage of this special privilege on Grab to save on rides, food deliveries, and more! Please note that these benefits are still subject to terms and conditions. Stay informed and make the most of them.

Know Your PWD Benefits and Privileges: A Quick Guide

Posted on December 7, 2024December 7, 2024 by Leia Bartolome

A Person with Disability (PWD) is someone with a long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairment that may limit their ability to perform everyday tasks or participate fully in society compared to able-bodied individuals.

Understanding these benefits and privileges is crucial for every PWD in the Philippines, as they are entitled to rights aimed at supporting their daily needs, enhancing accessibility, and fostering inclusivity.

Please note that what I’ve covered here isn’t everything—many local communities offer extra support and programs for PWDs.

Keep an eye out for updates and new initiatives in your area. These benefits are here to make life easier and more inclusive for you, so don’t hesitate to take full advantage of them!

Click here to know if you qualify as a PWD and how to obtain a PWD ID to access these benefits

PWD 20% Discount + VAT Exemption

Medicines
Medical & Dental Services
Covers diagnostics, lab fees, and professional fees in public/private medical facilities
Food & Beverages
Applies to dine-in, take-out, delivery, and online purchases
Click here for My How to Apply for PWD or SC on Grab
Domestic Fares
Includes land, air, and sea fares, baggage allowances, and ride-hailing apps
Accommodations
Valid for hotels, resorts, and other lodgings
Cinemas & Recreational Centers
Covers amusement parks, museums, internet cafes, concerts, fees for use of facilities and equipment, and more
Funeral & Burial Services
Applies to caskets, embalming, morgue services, and body transport

Click here and here for more details on PWD 20% discount and VAT exemption privileges

PWD 5% Discount

Basic Necessities
- Rice, corn, and bread
- Fish and other marine products, as well as their fresh, dried, or canned forms
- Fresh pork, beef, and poultry, as well as their fresh, dried, or canned forms
- Fresh vegetables, fruits, and other fresh produce
- Fresh dairy products, such as milk, eggs, and cheese
- Salt, sugar, and cooking oil
- Coffee and creamer
- Laundry Soap
- Firewood, candles, charcoal, kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
Prime Commodities
- Flour
- Processed meat products
- Condiments like vinegar, patis (fish sauce), and soy sauce
- Bath soap
- Fertilizer, pesticides, herbicide, animal feed, veterinary products
- School supplies
- Selected construction supplies like nipa shingles, cement, clinker, GI sheets, hollow blocks, plywood, plyboard, construction nails, electrical supplies, steel wire, and batteries (excluding mobile phone and automotive batteries).

Click here for more details on PWD 5% discount privileges

PWD Educational Assistance

Scholarships, grants, subsidies, and other incentives
Applicable at all levels—primary, secondary, tertiary, post-tertiary, and vocational/technical education.
Additional support
Allowances for books, learning materials, and uniforms (where feasible).

Click here for more details on PWD Educational Assistance privileges

PWD Conveniences

Express Lanes
Access exclusive priority lanes in government offices, banks, grocery stores, and other establishments for faster transactions and reduced waiting times.
Reserved Parking
Special parking spaces are designated for PWDs near building entrances to ensure easier and more convenient access.
Dedicated Restrooms
Accessible restrooms are provided in malls, offices, and other public spaces. These facilities are designed with wider doors, handrails, and other features to accommodate wheelchairs and assistive devices.
Travel Assistance
Get assistance during travel, such as priority boarding in airports, terminals, and stations. Staff in these facilities are trained to help PWDs with their luggage, seating, and other travel needs.
Designated Seating
These seats are usually located in easily accessible areas to ensure comfort and convenience.

PWD Cash Assistance

City-specific
Check with your local city government for PWD cash aids initiatives.
GSIS
Click here for more details on GSIS PWD Cash Assistance
SSS
Click here for more details on SSS PWD Cash Assistance
OWWA
Benefits range from ₱2,500 to ₱100,000 for disabilities
Click here for more details on OWWA Cash Assistance
Others
Check with your local community for PWD cash aids initiatives.

PWD Mandatory Coverage

Mandatory Coverage
Automatic inclusion in SSS, GSIS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG.

For more details:

How to Qualify and Apply for PWD ID in the Philippines: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on December 1, 2024December 7, 2024 by Leia Bartolome

WHAT IS A PWD

First off, what does PWD mean?
PWD stands for Person with Disability.

It refers to individuals with long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments that hinder their ability to fully and effectively participate in society on an equal basis with others.

The Philippine government provides PWDs with benefits and privileges to support their needs and improve their quality of life and one way to access these benefits is by obtaining a PWD ID.

How to Qualify as a PWD

To qualify for a PWD ID, you must belong to one or more of the following categories:

1. HEARING DISABILITY
Refers to individuals with hearing loss, ranging from mild to severe, including those with little or no hearing. This condition is characterized by a complete or partial loss of the ability to hear in one or both ears
Examples: Deafness, any hearing impairment that requires hearing aids

2. INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY
A significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information, learn, and apply new skills, often manifesting from an early age.
Examples: Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays

3. LEARNING DISABILITY
Refers to individuals with normal sensory, emotional, and intellectual abilities but who experience difficulties with perception, listening, thinking, writing, spelling, and arithmetic.
Examples: Dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

4. MENTAL DISABILITY
Disability resulting from organic brain syndrome or mental illness, including both psychotic and non-psychotic disorders.
Examples: Schizophrenia, mood disorders

5. PHYSICAL DISABILITY
A restriction of ability due to physical impairments that affect mobility, function, endurance, stamina, dexterity, and quality of life. Causes can be hereditary or acquired through trauma, infection, surgery, or medical conditions.
Examples: Amputations, cerebral palsy, arthritis, scoliosis, Parkinson’s disease

6. PSYCHOSOCIAL DISABILITY
Acquired behavioral, cognitive, emotional, or social impairments that limit activities necessary for effective interpersonal transactions and daily living.
Examples: Depression, anxiety disorders

7. SPEECH & LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENT
One or more disorders related to voice, articulation, rhythm, and/or difficulties with receptive and expressive language processes.
Examples: Muteness, speech delays, cleft palate

8. VISUAL DISABILITY
Partial or complete loss of vision. This includes poor vision that cannot be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery, as well as legal blindness, where visual acuity is 20/200 or worse in the better eye, even with correction.
Examples: Blindness, cataracts, glaucoma, retinal disease

9. CANCER
Refers to a large group of diseases that can affect any part of the body. Cancer is characterized by the rapid creation of abnormal cells that grow beyond their usual boundaries, invade adjoining parts of the body, and spread to other organs. Other terms for cancer include malignant tumors and neoplasms.
Examples: Breast cancer, lung cancer, leukemia, colon cancer.

10. RARE DISEASE
Refers to disorders such as inherited metabolic disorders and other diseases with rare occurrences, as recognized by the Department of Health (DOH) upon the recommendation of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This excludes catastrophic forms of more frequently occurring diseases that are life-threatening, seriously debilitating, or chronic.
Examples: Cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Huntington’s disease

Please note that the examples provided above are not the only qualifying conditions for PWD. Consult your doctor for a proper assessment.

Source: PDAO City of Imus

How to Apply for a PWD ID

The application process may vary slightly depending on your city or municipality, but here are the general steps and requirements:

Requirements:

Proof of Citizenship & Residency
- Must be a Filipino citizen and a registered voter or resident of the city/municipality
Valid Government-Issued ID
- Original and photocopy showing date of birth
Medical Certificate
- Must indicate:
  - Type of disability
  - Physician’s remark stating you qualify for a PWD ID
Barangay Certificate
- Proof of residency
Additional Document for Married Women
- Original marriage contract
Photo
- One (1) 2×2 photo with a white background
Personal Appearance
- Required unless the PWD is bedridden (a guardian can represent them with proper authorization)

Some areas may have additional requirements, such as a full-body photo and blood type information. It’s best to check with your local government unit (LGU) for the specific requirements in your area.

Where to Apply:

Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) at the City or Municipal Hall
Social Welfare and Development Office
Health Office or satellite clinics
Barangay Captain’s Office
National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) (for urgent cases)

Process:

Submit your documents to the designated office.
Wait for your application to be reviewed and approved.
Receive your PWD ID and booklet/s (medical and grocery).

Benefits of Having a PWD ID

PWDs are entitled to numerous benefits, including:

Discounts
- 20% off on:
  - Food and drinks (even online purchases!)
  - Medicine and healthcare services
  - Admission fees to cinemas, theaters, and leisure activities
  - Transportation fares for air, sea, and land travel, covering public utility vehicles (PUVs) like jeeps, buses, taxis, trains, and ride-hailing services
  - Lodging establishments like hotels and inns
  - Funeral and burial services
- 5% VAT exemption on basic necessities and prime commodities
Education Assistance
- Scholarships and financial aid for PWDs or their children
PhilHealth, GSIS, SSS, & PAG-IBIG Benefits
- Mandatory coverage
Express Lanes
- Priority service in government offices and establishments
Local Government Incentives
- Free movie admissions or cash assistance (varies by city)

Click here for more details on PWD Benefits and Privileges

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the PWD ID a valid ID?
Yes, it can be used as a valid government-issued ID.

2. What if the PWD cannot personally apply?
A guardian can represent the PWD by presenting an authorization letter, valid ID, and all other requirements.

3. What if the PWD ID or booklet is lost?
Secure a notarized Affidavit of Loss and present it to the PDAO along with a valid ID and any remaining booklets.

4. Can a person who is both a PWD and a senior citizen use both IDs for discounts?
If you are both a PWD and a senior citizen, you can use either your Senior Citizen ID or PWD ID to avail of the 20% discount, but not both. Choose whichever ID offers the best discount for you.

5. Can I combine the PWD discount with other promotions?
No, you cannot combine the 20% PWD discount with any other promotional offers. You can only use one, whichever gives you the bigger discount.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information on PWD rights and benefits, visit:

Upside Down World Cebu

Posted on October 25, 2017January 21, 2019 by Leia Bartolome

Other than rebounding on trampolines, another fun thing to do indoors when in Cebu is taking gravity-defying photos at Upside Down World in City Time Square.

As its name suggests, this whimsical photo studio has everything the wrong way up. Their topsy-turvy themed rooms are filled with furniture and decor fixed on the ceiling that you can interact with. A little imagination and creativity are all you need to have fun here.

Do note that all kinds of footwear (socks exempted) are strictly prohibited inside their sets to maintain cleanliness. Footwear and other belongings can be stored in their lockers for no extra charge.

As someone who is spatially-challenged, I’m glad they have cordial staff who guided us all the way on how to position ourselves in front of the camera so they can help us get perfect shots! Be warned though. You may need to do a little stretching for all the back-breaking stunts you may not be prepared to do. Enjoy the photo dump 😉

KITCHEN

DINING ROOM

LAVATORY/LAUNDRY ROOM

MARKET

LIBRARY

CASINO

MAGIC ROOM

LIVING ROOM

BEDROOM/PLAYROOM

If you enjoy taking wacky photos, do make a quick stop at Upside Down World. It’s a fun and memorable place to bond with family and friends. Kids of all ages (ahem) will surely enjoy. They’re open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM. City Time Square is located at Phase 2 Mantawi International Drive, Mandaue City.

Tickets are priced as follows:
Adults – 350 PHP
Kids (ages 4-12) – 250 PHP
Kids (ages 0-3 years old) – Free Admission

Tedts has moved!

Posted on February 22, 2016October 7, 2018 by xerox

After more than a decade of opening its doors to the public, Tedts has finally bid adieu to their Roxas branch in favor of a bigger and better location.

Taking pride in sharing their family recipes since 2005, this homegrown cafe and bakery has now officially become a household name here in Iligan. I’ve been a Tedts loyalista for many, many years and to see them grow this big makes my heart swell with pride and joy.

Today, they have launched the soft opening of their Quezon branch which is located right across Rosalinda store.

They gave free cupcakes to their first 150 customers and featured independent music artists to play live in the background.

Tedts is known for their delicious artisan cupcakes which have become a popular pasalubong for both locals and transient tourists. Each cupcake is handcrafted with love and baked fresh from scratch everyday.

Don’t miss out on Iligan’s finest delicious treats and head on over to Tedts! In case you’re wondering, their second location at Zamora-Lluch Streets is still operating.

Cuteness Overload with Happy Pao

Posted on October 9, 2014October 7, 2018 by xerox

Cute, lovable animal-shaped steamed buns isn’t something new. Yet, I’m surprised how it didn’t really catch on any sooner here in the Philippines as it is very popular in other Asian countries such as Hong Kong, Japan and Thailand.

But thankfully, Chowking has finally jumped on the bandwagon!

As soon as Happy Pao was launched, Instagram was on fire! These selfie-worthy treats were very hard to get a hold of considering they sell out faster than One Direction concert tickets. Haha!

When we finally got our hands on the elusive Happy Pao, it seemed like the heavens opened up and all the angels sang a beautiful song just for us.

However, I am grossly disappointed that Chowking Iligan branches do not serve Piggy Happy Pao.

Yes, I understand that they are doing this because of “religious and cultural sensitivity”. But what’s puzzling is that they serve meals that contain pork anyway. So, I don’t get it.

Disclaimer: This cute steamed bun does not contain any real pandas.

Panda Happy Pao is a sweet steamed bun bursting with velvety, smooth chocolaty goodness. Although it is served hot, I prefer to take it home with me and chill it in the fridge for a few minutes before eating it.

Happy Pao isn’t only yummy, it’s very affordable too! Get these adorable buns for only 39 PHP ala carte, 49 PHP with a drink and 117 PHP for a box of three. Happiness guaranteed! 😉

First OOTD

Posted on August 16, 2014 by xerox

Hi everyone! I know it has been awhile since I posted something on this blog. Just wanna let you know that, yes, I’m still here and I still think about you guys.

I have been aching to share a lot of things to you like my Butuan-Surigao trip, my first experience as a hired food critic, my business Agent Dolly, my food trips with le boyfie, my aerial yoga and so much more… But somehow, there’s just too much going on lately that I don’t feel like writing about them anymore. Maybe I’ll write about them some other time… However, I cannot promise that. But what I can promise is to try to keep this blog alive.

And in the spirit of putting life back to my blog, I shall now throw random photos of myself every now and then when I have nothing else to post. I know this sounds borderline narcassistic but I swear that they will never be tasteless selfies. Haha!

I’ve been thinking about injecting fashion and beauty posts on this blog for awhile now and I think it’s about time that I should.

For those who don’t know, I used to be an aspiring fashion blogger on Multiply. I would post most of my OOTDs there back when I was in college until they closed their operations.

My main influences were Style Arena, Japanese Streets and Lloyda Lim.

But obviously, I outgrew them all. I now have fully embraced the grungy and edgy chic vibe with the 90’s kind of flair. Those who know me on a personal level know that I identify myself best with this kind of style. My main influences are Jenn Im and Luanna.

But this doesn’t mean I won’t deviate from this style from time to time though. As always, what I wear depends on my mood and my hair color.

If you like to see more OOTDs on my blog, please don’t forget to show some love here so I’ll know if I should post more OOTDs in the future. Also, follow me on Instagram for more updates. Hope ya’ll enjoyed this post! 🙂

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 14: Little Kitchen Restaurant

Posted on November 8, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

Still unbelievably full from lunch, we opted for a light supper…

Little Kitchen Restaurant is a popular snack house in Gensan which is owned and managed by a doctor.

Originally built to cater the doctor’s patients and other people within the vicinity, Little Kitchen Restaurant unexpectedly turned out into a flourishing food business.

With the cozy atmosphere, it’s too easy to feel at home here. The wait staff are accommodating and the service is prompt.

For appetizers, we got complimentary garlic butter toasts. Loves it! Who doesn’t love free food? Hehe 🙂

For our supper, we had Shrimp Scampi Pizza. It had a crispy crust topped with olives, mushrooms, shrimp and cheese. This is one of their best sellers.

I know the pizza sounds really good on paper but it was a little too bland for my taste. It was a huge letdown for me because I really wanted to like it. Just everyone else does.

But despite being disappointed, I’d still like to go back there and sample other of their food items. I’m sure I’ll find something I’d love.

Little Kitchen Restaurant is located at Quirino Avenue, next to Calderon Clinic.

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 13: Blugre Coffee

Posted on October 30, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

Brewing since 1998, Blugre Coffee is a coffee shop chain based in Davao which is known for exotic durian coffee blends.

Why Blugre Coffee has made its way in Gensan is no surprise as one of the major franchisees is the power couple, Manny and Jinky Pacquiao.

Walking into the coffee shop, I was caught off guard by a strong whiff of durian aroma lingering in the air. To be blunt, the scent was a little bit off-putting because I am not particularly fond of durian… However, it was bearable.

While Blugre Coffee specializes coffee, they serve pastries, desserts and other hot and cold beverages as well.

Too full for anything else, we just had some iced latte for a little afternoon pick-me-up.

And although I was never a fan of durian, I braved myself for one of their durian coffee blends: Durian Arctic Blast… Which I painfully regretted.

Well, at least I tried. Let’s face it, it’s not for everyone. I read awesome reviews about it though and is certainly a hit with all the durian lovers out there.

Blugre Coffee is a great place for study, work, hangouts, or meetups. You don’t have to be a durian connoisseur to be here. When in Gensan, visit them at Robinsons Place or at JMP Building.

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 12: Team Pacquiao

Posted on October 26, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

General Santos is the hometown of Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao, the “Fighting Pride of the Philippines” and the first and only eight-division world boxing champion.

Whether you’re a fan of his or not, his chain store Team Pacquiao is one of the must-go-to places in Gensan.

With several branches nationwide, Team Pacquiao carries various products and limited edition collectibles especially made for all the Pambansang Kamao fanboys to covet.

They offer Pacman must-have items like graphic tees, polo shirts, jackets, caps and other novelty items.

Spotted on their high shelves are some kick-ass memorabilia that you can’t get anywhere else in the world but here (and other Team Pacquiao branches of course). And out of everything I’ve seen, the Mad Mickey toy figure is something I’d like to bring home with me (but didn’t). I’m not gonna lie, they don’t come cheap at all.

They also have autographed items such as boxing gloves, coffee table books and more.

And just like a kid in a candy shop, my boyfriend was in a state of utter fascination. I swear his eyes were sparkling with joy. Haha.

When in Gensan, you should definitely swing by the flagship store of Team Pacquiao which is located at the ground floor of Robinsons Place General Santos.