Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 385)
The purpose of Executive Order No. 385 is to create a Task Force to Address the Concerns of Persons with Disabilities in order to fast-track the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive and integrated plan of action for their rehabilitation, self-reliance, and development.
The Task Force was created by President Fidel V. Ramos through Executive Order No. 385 dated December 9, 1996.
The Task Force is composed of secretaries of the Departments of Social Welfare and Development (Chairman), Interior and Local Government (Co-Chairman), Labor and Employment, Trade and Industry, Health, Education, Culture and Sports, Agrarian Reform, as well as chairpersons of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, and Philippine Sports Commission.
The Task Force includes the heads of the Rizal Council of Persons with Disabilities, Inc. and the Philippine Foundation for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled, Inc.
The functions include ensuring the formulation and implementation of integrated programs for persons with disabilities, identifying gaps in laws and programs, formulating strategic interventions, facilitating fundraising activities, submitting quarterly reports to the President, and performing other tasks as directed by the President.
The NCWDP Secretariat provides technical and secretariat support to the Task Force and acts as the fund depository for funds allocated to programs and activities benefiting persons with disabilities.
Initially, the Task Force is funded with ten million pesos from the Office of the President-Department of Budget and Management savings and five million pesos from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.
Yes, members can designate permanent alternates whose rank must not be lower than that of a Director or its equivalent.
Yes, concerned local government executives and representatives from other NGOs involved in the welfare of persons with disabilities may be designated as members, consultants, or advisers of the Task Force.
Executive Order No. 385 took effect immediately upon its signing on December 9, 1996.