Memorandum Circular No. 2017-119 – GUIDELINES FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AFFAIRS OFFICE (PDAO) AND THE CONDUCT OF THE PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES GENERAL ASSEMBLY Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT DILG-NAPOLCOM Center, EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, West Triangle, Quezon City http://www.dilg.gov.ph GUIDELINES FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AFFAIRS OFFICE (PDAO) AND THE CONDUCT OF THE PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES GENERAL ASSEMBLY Memorandum Circular No. 2017-119 September 13, 2017 1. Background It is a declared policy of Republic Act No. 7277 that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are part of the Philippine society, and thus the State shall give full support to the improvement of their total well-being and their integration into the mainstream of society. They have the same rights as other people to take their proper place in society. Further, Republic Act No. 10070 was approved on April 6, 2010 to ensure that policies, programs and services for persons with disabilities are implemented at the local level for them to fully participate in building an inclusive society for all through the establishment of Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) or the appointment of focal person/s in case of the fourth (4th), fifth (5th) and sixth (6th) class municipalities, in lieu of the creation of PDAO. 2. Purpose This Memorandum Circular is issued to provide guidance on the conduct of PWD general assembly at the local government units concerned to ensure maximum participation of PWDs in the filling up of vacant PDAO positions. 3. Legal Compliance 3.1. Article 4.3 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) mandates the Philippine Government to closely consult with and actively involve persons with disabilities through their respective organizations in the development and implementation of legislation and policies to implement this international commitment; 3.2. Section 1 of RA No. 10070 mandates the creation of a Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office in every province, city and municipality or the designation of Focal Person in the fourth (4th), fifth (5th) and sixth (6th) class municipalities, in lieu of the creation of PDAO. 4. Scope/Coverage This policy covers all Provincial Governors, Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sangguniang Panlungsod, City/Municipal Mayors, Punong Barangays, DILG Regional Directors, ARMM Regional Secretary, DILG Field Officers and all others concerned. 5. Policy Content and Guidelines

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