Legislative Framework Supporting Women’s Development
- Republic Act 7192, known as the Women in Development and Nation Building Act, operationalizes the constitutional provisions on women’s development.
- Various government proclamations promote active participation of women in policy-making and governance, such as Proclamation No. 224 which declares the first week of March as Women’s Week and March 8 as Women’s Rights and International Peace Day.
Recognition of Women with Disabilities
- Women with disabilities are recognized as an integral part of society with equal rights under the law and in all human endeavors.
- This recognition mandates specific government action to ensure their rights are respected and protected.
Compliance with International and Regional Commitments
- The declaration aligns with the Biwako Millennium Framework (BMF) for Action Towards an Inclusive, Barrier-Free, and Rights-Based Society for Persons with Disabilities in Asia and the Pacific.
- This framework was adopted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP) in October 2002.
Declaration of Women with Disabilities Day
- The last Monday of March each year is declared as Women with Disabilities Day to highlight their rights and concerns.
- This is promulgated by the President of the Philippines by virtue of her powers under law.
Roles and Responsibilities of Government Agencies
- The National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP) and the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW) are mandated to ensure observance of the day.
- These bodies must integrate the needs of women with disabilities into the Comprehensive Plan of Action for persons with disabilities.
- All government departments and agencies are instructed to implement plans and programs promoting the human rights of women with disabilities.
Involvement of Local Government Units (LGUs)
- Local chief executives and officials are encouraged to implement relevant programs to promote and protect the rights of women with disabilities.
Specific Government Initiatives
- Equal access for women with disabilities must be guaranteed for health services, education, training, employment, and protection from abuse.
- Public awareness programs should be initiated to promote positive attitudes, role models, and development opportunities for women with disabilities.
Integration in National Plans and Funding
- The NCRFW shall incorporate the concerns of women with disabilities into the national plan for women.
- Funding shall partly come from the mandatory five percent (5%) gender and development budget of each government agency as provided in the General Appropriations Act.
- Additional funds may be sourced to support the implementation of the national plan of action for women.
Role of Non-Governmental Organizations
- NGOs, self-help groups for women with disabilities, and other organizations are encouraged to cooperate fully in promoting the goals and activities related to Women with Disabilities Day.
Formal Proclamation and Legal Authority
- The proclamation is officially signed by the President of the Philippines and the Executive Secretary.
- It provides the legal basis for all aforementioned directives and commitments.