Manila: In line with the celebration of the 22nd Women with Disabilities Day, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) called for unified efforts to prioritize the welfare and protection of women and girls with disability.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao highlighted the intersectional discrimination faced by Filipino women and girls with disabilities. This discrimination is rooted in their gender, disability, and status in a developing nation, leading to significant obstacles in accessing education, livelihood opportunities, and healthcare.

Dumlao emphasized the need for a whole-of-society approach to address these challenges. The DSWD is urging the government and all stakeholders to support policies, programs, and services that enable women with disabilities to actively participate in nation-building.

In collaboration with the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), the DSWD implements various programs to support persons with disabilities (PWDs). These initiatives include community-based and center-based programs designed to enhance the knowledge and capabilities of PWDs, helping them secure income-generating opportunities and contribute as productive members of society.

Key initiatives by the DSWD include the Persons with Disabilities-Electric Transportation Service (PWD-ETS), Therapy for Fee (TheraFee) Project, Developmental Assessment, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment (DARE) for Children with Disabilities Assessment, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment Caravan (CAREvan), the Sensory Lab, and Project Aruga.

The PWD-ETS project under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) provides livelihood grants for purchasing disability-friendly electric vehicles. Meanwhile, the TheraFee Project supports caregivers of persons with disabilities through cash-for-work incentives under the KALAHI-CIDSS program.

The DARE CAREvan offers free developmental assessments and interventions for children with developmental delays and neurodevelopmental conditions. The Sensory Lab provides free sensory-friendly spaces in SM Malls for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Project Aruga supports children with disabilities and their families through financial assistance and improved access to essential services.

Dumlao stated the DSWD's intention to expand these projects, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to provide comprehensive social protection for vulnerable sectors.

This year's theme, 'Landas ng Makabagong Babaylan: Pantay, Inklusibo, at Lahat May Kakayahan' (Path of the Modern Babaylan: Equal, Inclusive, and All Capable), highlights the leadership and pioneering roles of women with disabilities in nation-building.