Reinforcing inter-agency collaboration toward advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the region, the Regional Committee on Disability Affairs (RCDA) conducted the 1st Quarterly Meeting with 28 representatives from National Government Agencies (NGAs) and Local Government Units (LGUs) gathered at Watergate Hotel, Butuan City, on February 26. 

Key updates from the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) were presented during the meeting, setting the tone for the committee’s 2025 plans and priorities. Among the major agenda items were the presentation of resolutions adopted or pending for approval, and the sharing of accomplishments by various RCDA member agencies, highlighting the sustained commitment of stakeholders to inclusive development.

The Department of Health led a discussion regarding the continuous updating of the Philippine Registry for Persons with Disabilities, which aims to ensure accurate and timely data for policy and program formulation.

Forward-looking activities were also discussed, including the upcoming NDPR 2025 Access Audit and the recognition as the Most Disability-Friendly LGU. In preparation for these, the committee emphasized the need for enhanced coordination and stronger policy implementation, particularly through the issuance of a memorandum urging all LGUs to fully enforce Republic Act No. 10070, which institutionalizes the roles of Persons with Disability Affairs Offices (PDAOs).

Further enriching the meeting was the introduction of proposals for the RCDA Strategic Planning and the 2025 LPDAO Regional Conference. To support this, a proposal was raised for the allocation of funds to ensure the success of the regional conference.

In a move toward digital empowerment and inclusivity, the committee also facilitated the distribution of one desktop unit to the LPDAO of the Municipality of Mambajao, Camiguin, enhancing their operational capacity.

As the meeting concluded, the committee reaffirmed its dedication to regular engagements through the RCDA Quarterly Meetings, ensuring a continuous and unified approach in addressing the needs of PWDs in Caraga.