QUEZON CITY - The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS) is one with the nation and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) in observance of the 48th National Disability Rights Week from July 17 to 23, 2026.
This year's theme, "Rights First, Legislation Forward – Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development," highlights the need for a rights-based approach in policies and programs for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Pursuant to Proclamation No. 597, s. 2024, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., National Disability Rights Week promotes awareness of the rights, welfare, and meaningful participation of PWDs in society.
Disability-inclusion at work
As the policy research and advocacy arm of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Institute conducts studies that strengthen disability-inclusive workplace. In its 2017 study “A Study on Job Retention and Re-employment of Persons with Work-Related Disabilities (PWRDs) in Select Regions in the Philippines”, it highlighted the return-to-work experiences, challenges, and support mechanisms for workers who acquired disabilities on the job. PWRDs are workers who acquired disabilities due to occupational accidents or work-related illnesses, making recovery, rehabilitation, and return-to-work issues in their daily lives.
Nearly all surveyed workers with work-related disabilities (96%) successfully returned to employment, demonstrating that disability need not be a barrier to productive work when adequate support such as rehabilitation services, workplace accommodation, and opportunities for reintegration (skills training, livelihood programs) were provided.
While reintegration may be challenging, family and workplace support are key drivers of successful return-to-work.
To support reintegration of workers with work-related injuries or illnesses, DOLE Secretary Francis “Tol” N. Tolentino underscored the importance and strengthening access to rehabilitation, compensation, and return-to-work services through the Employee Compensation Program (ECP) under the Employee Compensation Commission (ECC).
As the nation commemorates National Disability Rights Week, the ILS reaffirms its commitment to producing inclusive and responsive labor and employment policy research and advocacy that promotes the rights and meaningful participation of PWRDs.
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