Disability Rights Week
PRESIDENT Marcos has declared July 17-23 of every year as National Disability Rights Week (NDRW), drawing cheers from the country’s persons with disabilities (PWDs}.
In the view of many, the declaration reflects the national government’s genuine concern over the welfare of the handicapped, more popularly known as PWDs.
President Marcos issued Proclamation No. 597 declaring July 17-23 as NDRW to raise awareness and uphold the rights of PWDs, a special social sector.
Signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the proclamation ordered the National Council on Disability Affairs to supervise the weeklong celebration.
All government offices and agencies, including local government inits (LGUs), are mandated to celebrate National Disability Rights Week.
The private sector and non-government organizarions (NGOs) are encouraged to celebrate the same.
The Philippines is committed to the purpose of the United Nations Commission on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
The UNCRPD promotes, protects and ensures the full and equal enjoyment of the human rights and fundamental freedoms by PWDs.
As well-meaning Filipinos, we cannot overemphasize the importance of celebrating National Disability Rights Week.
In fact, we expect the government of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to deliver on its pro-handicapped agenda.
The government is expected to provide the many needs of PWDs and members of other special social sectors, including the elderly.
