THE Persons with Disability Affairs Office (Pdao) of Davao City will lead a series of activities for the 47th National Disability Rights (NDR) Week from July 14 to 23, and has called on the public to support persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Pdao announced the events on July 3 during the ISpeak media forum at the City Mayor’s Office, urging residents to participate and help promote inclusion.
The celebration will culminate on July 23, which also marks the birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini, a national hero and key figure in Philippine disability history. This year’s theme centers on protecting the rights of PWDs and ensuring their full participation in society.
Pdao scheduled a citywide flag ceremony and Holy Mass, livelihood seminars, a motorcade, medical consultations, a seminar on Republic Act 11228 (Mandatory PhilHealth Coverage for all PWDs), and the opening of a PWD product display on July 21.
The city will also stage Paralympic-style competitions under the PAR Games and conduct barangay-level advocacy campaigns.
"Also, to remember that there is another sector of our community na dili dapat nato malimtan, which is ang atong mga kaigsuonan nga mga Persons with Disability, that is the highlight of the celebration of the Person with Disability (We must recognize and include our fellow citizens with disabilities. That is the heart of this celebration),” said Pdao head Atty. Redendo Martinez.
As of 2025, Davao City has registered 34,000 PWDs. Martinez expects this number to grow with rising awareness, broader disability recognition, and improved access to inclusive health services.
Pdao encouraged Dabawenyos to take part in the celebration and show solidarity with the PWD community. The office aims to strengthen public support and build a more inclusive city through sustained advocacy and engagement. Riccah Jedaina M. Ondoy, NDDU Intern