Manila: More than 300 persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the Bicol Region participated in the 2nd Bicol Summit on Health and Wellness Program for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) on Thursday, emphasizing the need to strengthen the implementation of laws, improve access to health services, and advance inclusive development.
According to Philippines News Agency, the summit, themed "Rights First, Legislation Forward - Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development," convened various stakeholders including government agencies, local government units, rehabilitation professionals, PWD organizations, families, and other interested parties. The primary focus was on discussing policies and programs that promote the welfare of persons with disabilities.
Department of Health (DOH) 5 (Bicol) Director Dr. Voltaire Guadalupe affirmed the agency's commitment to ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all sectors, particularly PWDs. He emphasized the importance of programs that recognize the diverse needs of PWDs, underscoring the DOH's long-standing prioritization of this demographic.
Dr. Guadalupe highlighted the department's priorities, which include improving access to medicines, assistive devices, and financial assistance to address the health needs of PWDs. He also stressed the importance of making health services more accessible by increasing public awareness and bringing services closer to communities.
Albay Governor and Regional Development Council (RDC) chair Noel Rosal stated that the summit provided an opportunity to address gaps in the implementation of laws that protect the rights and privileges of PWDs. He noted that this year's discussions placed a greater emphasis on ensuring that existing rights and benefits are properly enforced.
Governor Rosal called for greater representation of the PWD sector in government bodies to ensure that programs and benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. He also urged local chief executives to enhance compliance with accessibility laws, particularly in public infrastructure, to benefit both residents and tourists with disabilities.
