Government Organizes Disability Rights Awareness Event

According to PIA, the local government held municipal activities on July 17 to observe the 48th National Disability Rights Week, focusing on expanding access to public services and informing persons with disabilities (PWDs) about their legal rights.

Organized by the Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) in San Fernando, La Union, the event featured briefings on key national legislation. Discussions focused on the Magna Carta for PWDs (Republic Act No. 7277), which protects equal rights to education, employment, and healthcare, alongside the Accesibility Law (Batas Pambansa Bilang 344), which mandates accessible infrastructure and barrier-free public facilities.

During the activity, organizers offered direct support services and highlighted practical community initiatives:

• Free legal consultations for participants seeking legal advice
• Briefings on civil rights guarantees and architectural accessibility mandates
• Livelihood skills training, including courses in baking and pastry production
• Medical assistance programs managed directly through the local PDAO

Mark Anthony Inocencio, head of PDAO, stated that the initiative aims to shift public focus toward recognizing rights rather than relying on traditional charity. Approximately 10 PWDs availed themselves of free legal services during the gathering.

The event also featured talent performances by local participants to promote inclusion in social life. Sharinelle de Padua, president of the Region 1 Lupus Support Group, shared how skills training provided by the city enabled her to start a personal business and access healthcare support.

The annual observance supports local municipal efforts to ensure government services, legal protections, and livelihood opportunities remain fully accessible to all PWD residents.

---

SOURCE: PIA