Surigao Sur marks 48th National Disability Rights Week, promotes inclusive governance
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — The provincial government of Surigao del Sur reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive governance and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities as it celebrated the 48th National Disability Rights Week (NDR Week) at the EDM covered court in Tandag City.
Led by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), the activity was conducted in partnership with the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), bringing together persons with disabilities and partner agencies to promote disability rights, accessible services, and active civic participation.
The celebration highlighted the province’s efforts to advance programs that uphold the rights, dignity, and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities, in line with the national government’s agenda of building a more inclusive, resilient, and people-centered society.
As part of the program, participants attended a health education lecture focusing on the role of rehabilitation professionals and the proper care and maintenance of assistive devices. The session emphasized the importance of quality healthcare, rehabilitation services, and independent living in improving the well-being of persons with disabilities.
To strengthen civic participation, Provincial Election Supervisor Riza Ann Donalyn C. Constantino provided voter education for the upcoming 2026 Barangay Elections. The discussion encouraged persons with disabilities to exercise their right to vote and actively participate in the country’s democratic processes.
The observance also served as a platform to reaffirm the provincial government’s commitment to creating an accessible and inclusive Surigao del Sur where every individual, regardless of ability, is recognized, respected, and empowered to contribute to community development.
The annual observance took on greater significance following the issuance of Presidential Proclamation No. 597, which officially renamed the former National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week as National Disability Rights Week beginning in 2024. Celebrated every July 17 to 23, the observance adopts a rights-based approach that recognizes persons with disabilities as equal rights-holders entitled to full participation in society. The shift is consistent with the Philippines’ commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
Beneficiary Daisy P. Martinez, a person with disability, underscored the importance of protecting disability rights and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
“Rights are the foundation of lasting change and make equality a reality. As persons with disabilities, we all have the right to participate equally and move forward together, ensuring that no one is left behind. Progress means giving persons with disabilities the opportunity to contribute, be heard, and be recognized for who they are. When we stand firm in protecting our rights and uphold fairness, we build a future that belongs to everyone,” Martinez emphasized.
The celebration reflected the government’s continuing efforts to advance inclusive policies and strengthen partnerships that empower persons with disabilities to become active contributors to nation-building through equal access to services, opportunities, and democratic participation. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
