“Sino ang PWeDe at Hindi?”: A Multi-Sectoral Dialogue on Disability Categorization in the Philippines

Written by: Gabriella Isabel R. Tablante-Santos

Edited by: Yves Y. Palad, EdD

On November 25 at the College of Dentistry Auditorium, the Office of the Chancellor hosted a forum titled “Sino ang PWeDe at Hindi?” The event gathered experts, advocates, and stakeholders from various sectors to reflect on the economic, social, and ethical implications of the National Policy on the Institutionalization of Disability Categorization in the Philippines (DOH AO 2025-0014).

The morning’s session began with opening remarks from UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael L. Tee, who warmly welcomed the participants and set the tone for the discussions that followed. Dr. Hilton Lam, Director of the Institute of Health Policy and Development Studies of UP Manila, followed with a brief discussion on the process the Institute undergoes in leading the university in shaping and informing national policy.

Insights from Diverse Sectors

The program featured a panel of resource speakers representing various sectors. Glenda Relova, Executive Director of the National Council on Disability Affairs; Dr. Josephine Bundoc of the Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine; Prof. Cielo Magno of the UP Diliman School of Economics; and Dr. Hernando Delizo of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – NCR contributed their expertise, bringing together perspectives from government, health professions, economics, and the business community. Their collective insights emphasized the importance of a balanced, well-informed policy that considers the realities of Filipinos who should benefit from them and the other sectors of society that will be affected by such policies.

Panel Reactions and Expanded Perspectives

The resource presentations were followed by a panel discussion featuring leaders from industries and organizations involved in the implementation of the policy. Eric Teng of the Restaurant Owners of the Philippines, Dr. Benjamin Bernardino, President of the Life Haven Center for Independent Living, Dr. Jose Rene De Grano, President of the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc., Joselito Tetangco, Founding Member of the God Is Able International Foundation Inc., and Catherine Bernardo, Director for Operations at Medford Rx Solutions, offered additional perspectives from the restaurant and pharmacy sectors, the hospital industry, and the lived experiences of persons with disabilities. Together, they highlighted the significance of stakeholder participation in shaping policies that affect accessibility, service delivery, and social inclusion.

A Space for Reflection and Collective Responsibility

Well-attended by members of the UP Manila community and streamed live through the UP Manila Facebook page, the event encouraged broad public engagement and thoughtful discourse. The exchange among speakers, panelists, and participants underscored the need for collaborative, whole-of-system policymaking that facilitates the full participation of Filipinos with disabilities, addressing the structural and systemic barriers while considering the realities of the Philippine society.

As CAMP celebrates its 63rd foundation anniversary this November, it is timely for CAMPers to be reminded of our essential role in advancing person-centered, rights-based, and evidence-informed approaches within the evolving disability policy landscape.

Guiding the Conversation

The session was moderated by Prof. Esmerita Rotor, Dean of the College of Allied Medical Professions, and Dr. Carlo Irwin Panelo, Professor at the UP College of Medicine, who ensured a well-grounded and smooth dialogue throughout the event.