NORTHERN SAMAR, Philippines — A continuing effort in building a more inclusive community, the Provincial Government of Northern Samar gathered the focal persons and members of the Persons with Disabilities sector at the Capitol Gym, Barangay Dalakit, Catarman, for a collaborative discussion in observance of the National Disability Rights Celebration.

The event, spearheaded by the Provincial Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDDAO) in partnership with the Provincial Health Office, Northern Samar Public Employment Service Office, Norfil Foundation and the Northern Samar Federation of Persons with Disability, offered free medical check-up, medicines and anti-pneumonia vaccination and job skills registration for PWDs seeking employment.

This, along with insightful lectures on the salient features of Republic Act 10070 or the “Act Establishing Institutional Mechanism To Ensure The Implementation Of Programs And Services For Persons With Disabilities” delivered by esteemed resource speakers, Judge Albert Yruma of MTC Pambujan and Mr. Eduardo Diaz, LGOO VI of DILG Northern Samar.

Centered on the theme, “Innovation for Inclusion: Building Inclusive Communities Together,” the gathering provided valuable opportunity for Governor Harris Ongchuan to hear the concerns and proposed policies aired by the sector’s representatives.

Putting premium on a people-centered approach to governance, Governor Ongchuan clearly spoke of his support to the sector, saying “Dito sa ating lalawigan, naniniwala tayo na walang dapat maiwan. Ang bawat Nortehanon, ano man ang kanyang kalagayan, ay may mahalagang papel sa paghubog ng mas matatag at maunlad na probinsya.”

Also present were OIC-PPDAO Ms. Kirsten Tobes; Hon. Leonida Laodenio, Chair of PWD Committee; Mr. Anthony Dones, President of Northern Samar League of PDAO; Mr. Glenn Munez of NORFIL Foundation Inc.; and Mr. Basilio Ogario, President of Northern Samar Federation of Persons with Disability, who provided inputs and made the dialogue meaningful.

The Provincial Government of Northern Samar under Governor Ongchuan’s leadership works hand-in-hand with partner agencies and organizations to synergize efforts in creating programs and opportunities that protect the rights, ensure the welfare, and uplift the quality of life of the marginalized sectos in Northern Samar. (Northern Samar PIO)