The Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya (PGNV), through the Governor’s Office- Persons with Disability Affairs Division, spearheaded a transformative 2-Day PWD Summit on Inclusive Governance during the National Disability Rights Week. Themed “Promoting Inclusion: Celebrating abilities and advocating access,” the summit took place on July 18-19, 2024, at the Highlander Hotel in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya.
Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito set the tone for the summit with an inspirational message centered on the importance of inclusivity, emphasizing the celebration of abilities and the advocacy for access for all individuals. Vice Governor Eufemia A. Dacayo and Board Member Eunice Galima-Gambol also graced the event, delivering their messages of support and encouragement to the participants.
Ms. Venus R. Cadabona, Disability Affairs Officer III, warmly welcomed the participants and expressed gratitude to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, led by Acting Chief King Webster B. Balaw-ing, for funding the summit, highlighting the collaborative efforts that made the event possible.
The summit’s first day featured speakers who shared valuable insights on various aspects of disability rights and inclusion. Ms. Amalia A. Decena, Regional Coordinator/Council Member for PWDS of the National Anti-Poverty Commission, provided an orientation on disability laws, principles, evolution, and local implementation. Atty. Michael B. Paggabao, Provincial Director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), discussed promoting inclusivity through DTI programs and projects for PWDs and revised guidelines on special discounts.
The second day continued with presentations from experts in the field, including Mr. Mark Anthony B. Inocencio, PhD, Disability Affairs Officer IV of the City Government of La Union, who discussed coordination mechanisms for PWD programs. Mr. King Webster B. Balaw-ing presented on breaking barriers to inclusion through disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction, emphasizing innovation and engagement.
The summit also featured insightful discussions on topics such as supporting organizations of PWDs, promoting inclusive infrastructure, crime prevention for vulnerable populations, and ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for PWDs in disaster situations. Open forums provided a platform for interactive discussions and knowledge-sharing among participants.Ms. Marivic Salvador of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office concluded the ceremony with a message, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration and advocacy for inclusivity and empowerment within the PWD community.
The 2-Day PWD Summit on Inclusive Governance in Nueva Vizcaya exemplified a commitment to promoting inclusivity, advocating for disability rights, and fostering a more accessible and equitable society for all. /mvs
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