A file photo shows a disabled person on crutches. Mobility is a major obstacle for many of them.
MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has declared July 17 to 23 of each year as National Disability Rights Week to protect the rights of and promote respect for persons with disabilities.
According to Declaration No. 597, signed by Secretary-General Lucas Bersamin on June 13, the declaration is part of the Philippines’ commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
The Ministry of Social Welfare and Development, through the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), has been directed to lead, coordinate and supervise the week-long celebrations.
The NCDA has also been tasked with identifying programs, activities and projects for the commemorations.
“My country has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and is committed to the Convention’s objectives to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for the inherent dignity of persons with disabilities,” President Marcos’ proclamation reads.
As of June 8, the NCDA had registered 1,638,588 persons with disabilities in the country.
Marcos stressed the need to amend Proclamations 1870 and 361 to be consistent with the objectives of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and to promote a rights-based approach during National Disability Rights Week.
Proclamation 1870, enacted in 1979, declared the third week of July as “National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week,” while Proclamation 361, enacted in 2000, proclaimed July 23 as the last day of NDPR Week, coinciding with the birthday of the revered paraplegic Apolinario Mabini.
All government agencies and institutions, including government-owned and controlled corporations, state universities and junior colleges, are directed to join the celebrations. All local governments, non-governmental organizations and the private sector are also encouraged to join in the celebrations.