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, highlighting the need to strengthen the implementation of laws, improve access to health services, and advance inclusive development.

Carrying the theme, “Rights First, Legislation Forward – Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development,” the summit brought together government agencies, local government units, rehabilitation professionals, PWD organizations, families, and other stakeholders to discuss policies and programs promoting the welfare of persons with disabilities.

Department of Health (DOH) 5 (Bicol) Director Dr. Voltaire Guadalupe said the agency remains committed to ensuring that quality healthcare reaches all sectors, particularly PWDs.

“There are no boundaries in healthcare. We must reach all of our fellow Filipinos,” Guadalupe said in an interview.

He noted that the DOH will continue to support the special health needs of PWDs through programs that recognize the different types of disabilities and the services they require.

“For PWDs, we need to see programs that take into consideration their special needs. Ever since, the Department of Health has held persons with disabilities close to our priorities,” he said.

He said that improving access to medicines, assistive devices, and financial assistance remains among the department’s priorities to help address the health needs of PWDs.

Guadalupe also said there is a need to make health services more accessible by bringing them closer to communities and expanding public awareness of available government assistance.

“We want awareness of these services to be more widespread so people will not hesitate to seek help. At the same time, we will assist health facilities in expanding their services for persons with disabilities,” he said.

Meanwhile, Albay Governor and Regional Development Council (RDC) chair Noel Rosal said the summit serves as an opportunity to address gaps in the implementation of laws protecting the rights and privileges of persons with disabilities.

In an interview, Rosal said previous discussions focused largely on projects, but this year’s summit emphasized the need to ensure that existing rights and benefits are properly implemented.

“This is a wake-up call not only for enforcement agencies but especially for local government units, our attached agencies, and even building officials,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the PWD sector is represented in government bodies to help ensure that programs and benefits reach intended beneficiaries.

He also urged other local chief executives to intensify compliance with accessibility laws, particularly in public infrastructure, such as ramps, railings, and accessible restrooms.

He said that improving accessibility would benefit not only residents with disabilities but also tourists with special needs, underscoring the region’s commitment to inclusive public facilities. (PNA)