NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Affirms Support For Persons With Disabilities And Calls For Inclusive Workspaces
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reiterated his administration's commitment to supporting persons with disabilities (PWDs) and ensuring their inclusion and empowerment in the country. In a speech delivered by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin during the conferment rites for the 30th Apolinario Mabini Awards, President Marcos called on the private sector to create more inclusive workspaces for PWDs.
Speaking at Malacañan Palace's Heroes Hall, President Marcos urged the relevant government agencies to address the challenges faced by PWDs. He assured the audience that the government remains dedicated to overcoming these obstacles, enabling PWDs to actively participate in shaping society. Stressing the importance of creating "bridges of opportunity, empathy, and understanding," President Marcos emphasized that fostering a healthy environment for PWDs aligns with the government's goal of building a "new Philippines that will leave nobody behind."
President Marcos expressed his trust in the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Health, local government units, and partner-agencies to strengthen programs and services that encourage PWDs to contribute to nation-building. He also encouraged continued advocacy efforts to reduce prejudice and promote the acceptance and empowerment of PWDs, with the ultimate aim of eliminating stigma, discrimination, and exclusion.
Highlighting the role of the private sector, the chief executive called on businesses to create inclusive workspaces that promote diversity and equality for PWDs. President Marcos urged the private sector to provide fair employment opportunities for PWDs, emphasizing the importance of their active participation in the workforce.
The Apolinario Mabini Awards, established by the Philippine Foundation for Rehabilitation of the Disabled, Inc. (PFRD) in 1974, was also recognized by President Marcos. These awards acknowledge individuals, groups, and agencies that have made outstanding contributions to improving the welfare of PWDs. The nine award categories include recognition for organizations and individuals promoting empowerment, media advocacy, disability-friendly establishments, and local government units that support PWDs.
The President commended the PFRD for its efforts to prevent disabilities, protect and rehabilitate the disabled, and provide equal opportunities for PWDs. He credited the Apolinario Mabini Awards for inspiring individuals to surpass perceived limitations, embrace their potential, and foster a more inclusive Philippines.
President Marcos expressed his gratitude to this year's Mabini Awardees for their dedication to advocating for PWDs and creating a society that views disability not as an obstacle, but as a catalyst for innovation, resilience, and ingenuity. He praised the awardees as beacons of hope, leading the way toward a society that fully embraces everyone.
Among those present at the conferment of the awards were PFRD President Edgardo Garcia, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, his wife Audrey Tan-Zubiri, who serves as chairperson of the 30th Apolinario Mabini Awards, and Jaime Silva, chairperson of the Screening Committee.
Speaking at Malacañan Palace's Heroes Hall, President Marcos urged the relevant government agencies to address the challenges faced by PWDs. He assured the audience that the government remains dedicated to overcoming these obstacles, enabling PWDs to actively participate in shaping society. Stressing the importance of creating "bridges of opportunity, empathy, and understanding," President Marcos emphasized that fostering a healthy environment for PWDs aligns with the government's goal of building a "new Philippines that will leave nobody behind."
President Marcos expressed his trust in the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Health, local government units, and partner-agencies to strengthen programs and services that encourage PWDs to contribute to nation-building. He also encouraged continued advocacy efforts to reduce prejudice and promote the acceptance and empowerment of PWDs, with the ultimate aim of eliminating stigma, discrimination, and exclusion.
Highlighting the role of the private sector, the chief executive called on businesses to create inclusive workspaces that promote diversity and equality for PWDs. President Marcos urged the private sector to provide fair employment opportunities for PWDs, emphasizing the importance of their active participation in the workforce.
The Apolinario Mabini Awards, established by the Philippine Foundation for Rehabilitation of the Disabled, Inc. (PFRD) in 1974, was also recognized by President Marcos. These awards acknowledge individuals, groups, and agencies that have made outstanding contributions to improving the welfare of PWDs. The nine award categories include recognition for organizations and individuals promoting empowerment, media advocacy, disability-friendly establishments, and local government units that support PWDs.
The President commended the PFRD for its efforts to prevent disabilities, protect and rehabilitate the disabled, and provide equal opportunities for PWDs. He credited the Apolinario Mabini Awards for inspiring individuals to surpass perceived limitations, embrace their potential, and foster a more inclusive Philippines.
President Marcos expressed his gratitude to this year's Mabini Awardees for their dedication to advocating for PWDs and creating a society that views disability not as an obstacle, but as a catalyst for innovation, resilience, and ingenuity. He praised the awardees as beacons of hope, leading the way toward a society that fully embraces everyone.
Among those present at the conferment of the awards were PFRD President Edgardo Garcia, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, his wife Audrey Tan-Zubiri, who serves as chairperson of the 30th Apolinario Mabini Awards, and Jaime Silva, chairperson of the Screening Committee.
Jul 19, 2023
