28/07/2026
💙 WRAPPED UP | 48th National Disability Rights Week Celebration 2026 💙
The Province of Pangasinan successfully concluded its celebration of the 48th National Disability Rights Week, bringing together persons with disabilities, government agencies, local government units, development partners, advocates, and stakeholders in a united commitment to uphold the rights, dignity, and empowerment of every Filipino with disability.
Anchored on the theme, "Rights First, Legislation Forward: Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development," this year's celebration reaffirmed that disability inclusion is a shared responsibility and that meaningful change begins when policies are transformed into action.
Representing Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Atty. Ronn Dale B. Castillo, Executive Assistant III, delivered the Governor's message of unwavering support for persons with disabilities, reaffirming the Provincial Government's commitment to inclusive governance, equal opportunities, and sustainable programmes that empower every Pangasinense.
The Provincial Government of Pangasinan was likewise honoured by the presence of our Guest of Honor and Speaker, Atty. Gerald D. Gallardo, CESO V, Provincial Director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Pangasinan, whose inspiring address emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership, stronger collaboration, and responsive local governance in advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
The celebration was further enriched by the presence and steadfast support of our members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan—Hon. Apolonia "Apple" Bacay, Board Member of the 1st District of Pangasinan; Hon. Marinor B. De Guzman, Board Member of the 4th District and Chairperson of the Committee on Social Services; and Hon. Dra. Sheila F. Baniqued, Board Member of the 3rd District and Chairperson of the Committee on Health. Their participation and messages of support reaffirmed the Province's dedication to championing disability-inclusive legislation, responsive governance, and programmes that empower persons with disabilities across Pangasinan.
The celebration featured meaningful messages from provincial leaders, inspiring performances by organizations of persons with disabilities, the oath-taking of the Provincial Federation of Persons with Disabilities, learning sessions on disability inclusion, rehabilitation, and disaster resilience, the recognition of local government units with exemplary disability-inclusive policies, the awarding of assistive devices to beneficiaries, and the celebration of Pangasinan's national recognition as an Extraordinary Disability Inclusive Province.
These milestones are a testament to the visionary leadership of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, the unwavering commitment of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, the Provincial Disability Affairs Office, partner agencies, organizations of persons with disabilities, and all advocates who continue to ensure that no one is left behind.
As we conclude this meaningful celebration, let us carry forward its message beyond this week of observance. Together, let us continue transforming policies into action, barriers into opportunities, and aspirations into lasting change—building a Pangasinan where every person with disability can participate fully, equally, and with dignity.
Rights First. Legislation Forward. Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development.
Rights First. Action Now. Inclusion Always.
Pangasinan Ang Galing! 💙♿