The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, through the Persons With Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), conducted the 1st Disability Summit on Inclusive Governance with the theme, “Promoting Inclusion: Celebrating Abilities and Advocating Access” held at Ynad’s Place Hotel and Resort on October 4, 2024.

Representatives from different barangays and the Samahan ng May Kapansanan – City of San Fernando La Union (SMKCSFLU) joined in this summit which includes plenary sessions, open forum, and free public services from the  City Health Office (CHO), City Legal Office, City Registry Office, City Gender and Development Office, and City Social Welfare and Development Office.

Among the topics discussed during the summit were the government mandates on infrastructure, education, health, employment, and discounts for persons with disabilities. Then, an open forum was conducted to cater to clarifications from the participants.

Among the resource speakers invited for the plenary sessions are Mr. Roberto C. Baniqued, Jr., DTI Region 1 Senior Trade Industry Development Specialist; Ms. Fe Q. Blanco, CHO Nurse III; Ms. Jeremiah Louise C. Mendoza from Department of Labor and Employment Region 1;  Mr. Donald R. Rimando from Department of Public Works and Highways; and Ms. Geneveve Ugay from the Department of Education.

City Mayor Hermenegildo A. Gualberto, City Vice Mayor Hon. Alfredo Pablo R. Ortega, SMKCSFLU President Mr. Romeo M. Tan, SMKCSFLU Vice President Mr. Wilfredo Bosito, and Women with Disability Organization President Ms. Vivian G. Casuga were also present to grace the event and deliver their respective messages.

This summit was conducted to raise awareness on accessibility, diversity, inclusivity, and belongingness of persons with disabilities in our society.

Let us continue to advocate the rights of Fernandos and Fernandas with disabilities to ensure that they have equal access to the resources and opportunities here in the #PeoplesCity of #SanFernandoTayo.