The University of Northern Philippines, through the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension (OVPRE), partnered with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Region 1 in a joint extension endeavor aimed to promote the dignity, rights, and inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs). The activity took place at Sacuyya Elementary School, in Santa, Ilocos Sur on December 3, 2025 and brought together community leaders and service frontliners across sectors.
Carrying the theme “Advancing Equity and Dignity: Mainstreaming Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” the initiative was spearheaded by UNP VPRE Dr. Fatima Rocamora in collaboration with Atty. Mhelanie William, Attorney IV; Mr. Danilo Balino, Information Officer III; and Ms. Celia Quedado, Information Officer II of CHR Region 1. The activity reinforced the growing partnership between academic institutions and human rights advocates in fostering responsive, inclusive, and rights-based community programs.
The program featured a series of expert-led lectures that deepened participants’ understanding of human rights as they relate to PWDs. Dr. Society Salcedo, a UNP human rights accredited educator, opened the learning sessions with a discussion on “Basic Human Rights Concepts and Principles,” emphasizing that respect for human dignity must be integrated in all levels of governance and service.
This was followed by Mr. Balino’s “Disability Sensitivity Orientation,” which highlighted the importance of respectful language, accessibility, and recognition of PWDs as rights-holders rather than recipients of charity. Atty. William, meanwhile, delivered a comprehensive lecture titled “Advancing the Rights to Accessibility and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities,” focusing on legal frameworks, public accountability, and policy obligations of community leaders in protecting PWD rights. Ms. Quedado concluded the sessions with #NaritoAngCHR, a segment that informed the public about CHR’s mandates, services, and mechanisms for reporting and monitoring human rights concerns.
The activity gathered key community stakeholders, including barangay officials led by Hon. Aniceto Burgonio of Sacuyya Sur and Hon. Leilani Sabalburo of Sacuyya Norte, health workers, and the teaching staff of Sacuyya Elementary School headed by OIC Principal Ms. Delia de Peralta. Also present were officers of the Supreme Elementary Learner Government (SELG) and local coordinator Mr. Maximo Borje Jr., whose involvement is crucial in sustaining disability-inclusive initiatives at the grassroots level. Coordinating the event for UNP was Prof. May Evelia Ruadap, Extension Coordinator, who ensured the smooth and meaningful conduct of the community engagement.
The activity emphasized the significance of empowering local stakeholders through education and partnership. It highlighted that mainstreaming PWD rights is central to UNP’s mission of community service and inclusive development.
The event marked another collaborative milestone for UNP and CHR Region 1 in advancing human rights education and strengthening advocacy toward an inclusive and equitable society where persons with disabilities fully enjoy their rights with dignity and respect.
