Today, July 20, 2026, marks a very special occasion here in our municipality — the 48th National Disability Rights Week Celebration, organized by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of New Lucena, Iloilo!

 
📌 About the Event
This year’s celebration carries a powerful theme:
 
"Rights First, Legislation Forward: Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development."
 
This occasion is all about honoring the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), strengthening laws that protect them, and building a community where everyone belongs, thrives, and gets equal opportunities.
 
 📅 What’s Happening Today?
The celebration is packed with activities that raise awareness, honor our PWD community, and push for real change!
 
Morning Activities
 
📍 Part I: New Lucena Municipal Grounds
 
- 7:30 AM: Flag Raising Ceremony + Advocacy Campaign for NDRW, plus a photo opportunity with our NELUMUNAPEA employees.
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- 9:00 AM: Advocacy Parade! 
Route: New Lucena Public Market → Parking Area → 7/11 Store → Almoceda’s
 
Throughout the parade, we’ll share important information about the Rights and Privileges of PWDs, including:
✅ 20% discount and other statutory benefits
✅ Privileges in public transportation
✅ Access to affordable medicines
✅ Fair treatment in all business establishments
 
Our resource speaker for this session is no other than Mr. Nicolas B. Mana-ay, President of the Persons with Disability Federation!
 
📍Part II: Launching of the Annual Persons with Disability Summit
 
Activities continue at the New Lucena Municipal Auditorium, where we officially launch this year’s summit:
 
- Opening Remarks: Hon. Isabelo M. Acollador (Municipal Vice Mayor)
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- Message: Hon. Liecel Mondejar-Seville (Sangguniang Bayan Member & Author of the Persons with Disability Summit)
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- Message of Support: Hon. Mauro B. Laguardia Jr. (Sangguniang Bayan Member)
 
 Why This Matters
National Disability Rights Week isn’t just an event — it’s our promise to make New Lucena a place where barriers are broken, rights are respected, and every person is valued for who they are. From knowing your privileges to pushing for better policies, every step counts toward an inclusive future.
 
Let’s all join hands to support our PWD community today and every day!