1982 provides for a multi-sectoral integrated system of education in the implementation of inclusive education by mandating schools to provide for the establishment of appropriate bodies that would discuss issues and promote their interest. In 1994, the Philippine government adopted the Salamanca Statement and Framework of Action on Special Needs Education, a policy on inclusive education that subscribes to the fundamental principle that “all children should learn together, wherever possible, regardless of any difficulties or differences they may have.” Three government agencies namely the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) implement education and trainings for persons with disabilities. The CHED is in charge of seeing to persons with disabilities are accommodated in colleges and universities, while TESDA provides technical and vocational training. The government promotes an inclusive education that mainstreams students with disabilities in regular classes as its main strategy. Through the DepEd, it has issued a number of implementing orders thereby expanding access to education of persons with disabilities. • • • • Department Order No. 14, s. 1993 entitled Regional Special Education Council which authorizes the regional directors to organize a Regional Special Education Council (RSEC). Department Order No. 26, s. 1997 entitled Institutionalization of SPED Programs in all Schools which institutionalizes the provision of equal educational opportunities to children with disabilities through special needs education. Department Order No. 12, s. 1999: Production of textbooks for learners with visual impairments. Department Order No. 11, s. 2000: Recognizes special education centers in the Philippines. Other government agencies implement their own education-related initiative for persons with disabilities. For example, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) launched the Continuing Education with Barriers (TAWAG) Program to enhance the physical, social, mental, and psychological functioning of children and out-of-school youth with disabilities through their integration into day care services, and special or regular schools. Barriers in the full realization of right to education of women with disabilities Inaccessible and inadequate educational facilities 5