The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) has transformed the observance of National Disability Rights Week into a month-long campaign, bringing its inclusion drive from legislative discussions and recognition programs to job fairs, anti-bullying sessions, and community activities nationwide.

Although the 48th National Disability Rights Week officially runs from July 17 to 23, NCDA spokesperson Walter Jason Alava said Wednesday that activities began as early as July 3 and would continue until the end of the month.

“Mahalaga po ang pagsi-celebrate natin kasi we are promoting rights, dignity, kakayahan ng ating mga persons with disability at iyong buong partisipasyon nila sa community (The celebration is important because we are promoting the rights, dignity and abilities of persons with disabilities, as well as their full participation in the community),” Alava said during the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program.

This year’s theme, “Rights First, Legislation Forward – Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development,” reflects the council’s shift toward a rights-based approach in disability policies and programs.

Alava said laws and government actions must be anchored on the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and translated into effective implementation to achieve an inclusive society.

Among the highlights was the Biennial Recognition Awarding Ceremony and Partners Recognition Awards honoring PWD achievers and stakeholders advancing disability inclusion.

The NCDA also scheduled a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of Apolinario Mabini, whom the council recognizes as the “Father of Persons with Disabilities,” as well as a seminar on the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities for Department of Public Works and Highways personnel.

Children will also be engaged through a Safe Spaces Act activity aimed at raising awareness against bullying and discrimination.

Beyond the official observance, inclusive job fairs will be held in Davao City on July 24 and Butuan City on July 28, while a workplace Filipino Sign Language activity is scheduled on July 25.

PWDs and their advocates will also gather for the “Walk, Run and Roll” activity at the University of the Philippines on July 26.

The celebration was preceded by a July 20 legislative town hall involving Congress, national government agencies, PWD organizations, civil society groups, and other stakeholders.

The meeting generated recommendations on policy implementation, development and additional legislation, while highlighting Carmona City’s United Nations-recognized KALINGYAKAP Program as a model for inclusion from early intervention to employment.

Alava said the series of activities seeks to ensure that disability rights remain a continuing public concern rather than a once-a-year observance.

“Isinusulong po natin na magkaroon ng inclusivity sa lahat ng parte ng bansa para sa ating mga persons with disabilities (We are advancing inclusion in all parts of the country for PWDs),” he said. (PNA)