ILOILO – New Lucena has emerged as Iloilo province’s model for disability-inclusive governance, besting nine other municipalities in a province-wide assessment of programs, policies, services and facilities for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The municipality was named the Most PWD-Friendly Municipality/City during an awarding ceremony organized by the Iloilo provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) at Casa Real de Iloilo on July 24.
Mayor Carl Vincent Mondejar received a plaque of appreciation and P50,000 in cash on behalf of the municipality.
Leganes placed first runner-up and received P30,000 and a plaque, while Guimbal finished second runner-up and took home P20,000 and a plaque.
The other participating municipalities were Tigbauan, Miag-ao, Badiangan, Concepcion, Banate, Pavia, and Alimodian.
Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque, who presented the awards, said the search should go beyond being a healthy competition and inspire other local government units (LGUs) to improve their programs and projects for PWDs.
She said the initiative supports Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s goal of building an inclusive province where disability does not prevent people from participating fully in society.
“Luyag naton makita nga ang aton disability indi upang if we have the right mind set. If we have the right opportunity, we can flourish just like any other Ilonggo,” Debuque said.
She cited the hiring of PWDs by several offices of the Iloilo provincial government as an example of creating equal employment opportunities.
Debuque encouraged LGUs to further strengthen their PWD programs and assured them that the Office of the Vice Governor remains open to addressing the sector’s needs.
Mondejar, meanwhile, credited New Lucena’s victory to the cooperation among the provincial government, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, and the town’s PWD Federation.
He said the award affirmed New Lucena’s commitment to delivering quality services to all residents, particularly PWDs.
Municipalities were evaluated based on planning and policy formulation, resource utilization, delivery of health, nutrition and social protection services, institution-building initiatives such as ramps and other accessible facilities, PWD participation, and community involvement.
The search seeks to encourage LGUs to organize and support functional PWD associations and establish Persons with Disability Affairs Offices in first- to third-class municipalities and component cities.
Fourth- to sixth-class municipalities and component cities are encouraged to appoint focal persons for PWD affairs.
The competition also promotes stronger partnerships among LGUs, nongovernment organizations and civil society groups; greater PWD participation in local programs; and the allocation of local and barangay funds for disability-inclusive projects and activities.
The search was among the highlights of Iloilo province’s observance of the 48th National Disability Rights Week from July 17 to 24.
This year’s celebration carried the theme, “Rights First, Legislation Forward – Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development.”/PN
