International and National Legal Context
- Incorporates principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006).
- Aligns with UN Standard Rules on Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (1993).
- Follows the UN World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons (1982).
- Recognizes UN policy on establishment of disability affairs office under highest government office.
- Upholds 1987 Philippine Constitution mandate for special agency for persons with disabilities (Article 13, Section 13).
- Supports Republic Acts 9442 and 7277, and Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 for strong disability programs and services.
- Builds on Presidential Decree No. 1509, E.O. 232 (1987), and E.O. 676 (2007) concerning disability councils and their positioning.
Powers and Functions of the NCDA
- Formulate policies and propose legislation on rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
- Lead implementation of disability-related programs and services.
- Conduct consultative meetings, symposia, program monitoring, and evaluation involving stakeholders.
- Undertake relevant research and studies to promote rights and welfare.
- Establish and maintain a disability data bank in partnership with government and NGOs.
- Strengthen referral services and provision of assistive devices.
- Develop linkages and networks with local and international disability organizations.
- Serve as national body to promote and monitor laws and international commitments.
- Assist in establishing self-help organizations through technical and financial support.
Composition of the Council
- Comprised of Governing Board and Secretariat.
- Governing Board chaired by a non-government organization (NGO) representative appointed by the President.
- Members include heads or designate representatives of key government departments (DSWD, DOH, DOLE, DepEd, DILG, DTI, DPWH, DOTC, DFA, DOJ, PIA, TESDA).
- Six private sector members: two NGO representatives for persons with disabilities, two persons with disabilities representing legitimate organizations, two civic/cause-oriented representatives.
- Department heads encouraged to attend; they may delegate representatives of appropriate rank.
Chairperson's Duties and Appointment
- Chairperson appointed by the President, co-terminous with Presidential term, with Undersecretary rank, privileges, and emoluments.
- Duties include calling and presiding over meetings, managing Council administration, monitoring policy implementation.
- Authorized to sign communications, represent Council, and accept gifts/grants/donations.
- Can execute contracts as authorized and organize committees or expert groups.
- Acts as liaison between Board and Secretariat.
- Assisted by an Assistant Secretary appointed similarly.
Executive Committee
- Composed of Chairperson, eight Sub-Committee Chairpersons, and one regular PWD member selected by Chairperson.
- Responsible for resolving policy issues and program recommendations before Board review.
Sub-Committees and Their Chairs
- Accessibility on Built Environment and Transportation - chaired by DPWH.
- Training, Employment and Livelihood - chaired by DOLE.
- Auxiliary Social Services - chaired by DSWD.
- Health - chaired by DOH.
- Information, Communications and Technology - chaired by DOTC.
- Advocacy - chaired by PIA.
- Education - chaired by DepEd.
- International Disability Network - chaired by DFA.
- Sub-Committee members selected from Board members and experts.
- Board may create additional sub-committees/task forces.
- Encourages LGUs to create local disability committees and designate coordinators, funded from local appropriations.
Secretariat Structure and Roles
- Coordinates the functions and services of the Council.
- Monitors policies and evaluates program implementation.
- Headed by an Executive Director appointed by Chairperson and Board.
- Other officers and staff appointed similarly.
- Divisions within the Secretariat:
- Office of the Executive Director
- Administrative Division
- Programs Management Division
- Information, Education and Communication Division
- Technical Cooperation Division
Donations and Financial Administration
- Council authorized to solicit and accept gifts, grants, donations in accordance with government rules.
- Donations are administered/disbursed for their intended purposes or as determined by the Board.
- Appropriations previously allocated to NCWDP automatically apply to NCDA.
Repealing Clause and Effectivity
- All inconsistent ordinances, rules, and issuances are repealed or modified accordingly.
- Executive Order takes immediate effect upon issuance.