Republika ng Pilipinas

NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY AFFAIRS

 BOARD RESOLUTION NO. 3 SERIES OF 2025

RECOMMENDING TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES THE ISSUANCE OF A PROCLAMATION DECLARING FEBRUARY 25 TO MARCH 3 OF EVERY YEAR AS “HEARING AND HEALING HEALTH WEEK”

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which emphasizes the inherent dignity, equal rights, and inclusion of all persons with disabilities in every aspect of life;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 709, series of 2008, mandates the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) to oversee the formulation and implementation of policies, programs, and activities promoting the welfare of persons with disabilities, thereby affirming the country’s commitment to advancing their rights and well-being;

WHEREAS, the Philippines celebrates various annual events recognizing the contributions and addressing the needs of persons with disabilities, including the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, held every third week of July, and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3, as part of its efforts to create a more inclusive society;

WHEREAS, the observance of “Hearing and Healing Health Week” is anchored on the recognition that access to health, including hearing health, is a fundamental human right. This event shall adopt a rights-based approach to ensure that all activities prioritize the dignity, autonomy, and participation of individuals with hearing and related health conditions, ensuring their inclusion in programs, decision-making, and access to services without discrimination;

WHEREAS, there is a need to enhance public awareness and understanding of hearing health and other related conditions, as well as to promote preventive care, early diagnosis, and accessible interventions to improve the quality of life of affected individuals;

WHEREAS, dedicating a week to the observance of “Hearing and Healing Health Week” would encourage government agencies, private institutions, civil society organizations, and the general public to undertake programs and initiatives aimed at promoting hearing health, raising awareness on hearing-related disabilities, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and support;

WHEREAS, NCDA Board Resolution No. 4 S. 2024, “A Resolution Delegating Approval of Succeeding Council Resolutions and/or its Equivalent to the National Council on Disability Affairs Chairperson and Designated Officials”, duly authorized the NCDA Chairperson and the NCDA Executive Director to sign this Resolution for and on behalf of the NCDA Governing Board;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, as it is hereby resolved, to recommend to the President of the Republic of the Philippines the issuance of a proclamation declaring February 25 to March 3 of every year as “Hearing and Healing Health Week”;

 RESOLVED FURTHER, that this observance shall be spearheaded by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and other relevant government agencies, local government units, non-government organizations, and stakeholders;

RESOLVED FINALLY, that activities during this week shall include but not be limited to free hearing health check-ups, educational campaigns, capacity-building workshops, and public fora to ensure inclusivity and public engagement in addressing hearing and related health issues.

APPROVED held this _____ day of ____ 2025.

GLENDA D. RELOVA

Executive Director, NCDA

REX GATCHALIAN

DSWD Secretary & Chairperson, NCDA

Click here for the signed copy.