Report on a Livelihood Project

LESSONS LEARNT from the Project “Strengthening the Capacities of Baras Municipality Stakeholders to Ensure Persons with Disabilities Enjoy their Social and Economic Rights�

Written by: Joana Paula Villaflor

With contributions from: Yuban Malla Ronald Genise Verna Emy Pilayre Maria Concepcion Penetrante Jirah Kaye Luison Lea Agustina Sumalde Mark Robert Alonzo Arnel Ambrosio Jezzalyn Casinao Racquel Emmanuel Buenaventura Shirley Ferrera

Design and layout: Jun Daryl Zamora

Text and photos Š 2014 Handicap International - Philippines

This document has been produced through the financial support of the European Union and Swiss Solidarity. The views expressed herein should not be taken, in any way, to reflect the official opinion of the European Union and Swiss Solidarity.

Printed in the Philippines

Online version available at www.handicapinternational.ph

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ABBREVIATIONS BDC

Barangay Development Council

BFAR

Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources

BFPWDAI

Baras Federation of Person with Disabilities Associations, Inc.

BLGU

Barangay Local Government Unit

BUB

Bottom Up Budgeting

CRPD

Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities

CSO

Civil Society Organization

CVD

Cardiovascular Disease

DPO

Disabled Peoples Organization

DRR

Disaster Risk Reduction

DTI

Department of Trade and Industries

GPBP

Grassroots Participatory Budgeting and Planning

HI

Handicap International

IDPD

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

IEC

Information, Education and Communication

ILD

Inclusive Local Development

LGU

Local Government Unit

LLDA

Laguna Lake Development Authority

LPD

Local Participatory Diagnosis

MAO

Municipal Agriculture Office

MDRRMC

Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council

MDRRMO

Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office

MSWDO

Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office/Officer

NDPR

National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation

PM

Project Manager

SAPIKAP

Samahan sa Pinugay ng mga Taong May Kapansanan

TWH

Tahanang Walang Hagdanan

UNCRPD

United Nations Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities

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DPO members collaborate during a seminar-workshop.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTENT

PAGE

The Project

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Overall Project Strategy

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Project Methodology

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About the Document

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Good Practices and Recommendations

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Awareness Raising: Adapting and Contextualizing Information and Knowledge Sharing

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DPO: Enabling the Organization to Become an Active Local Stakeholder

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Stakeholders: Enabling Development Actors to Deliver Inclusive Services

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Conclusion

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Baras DPO member Merfe (with white headband) takes part in a DRR training.

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THE PROJECT “Strengthening the capacities of Baras municipality stakeholders to ensure persons with disabilities enjoy their social and economic rights,” otherwise known as the REBUILD Project, is an inclusive local development and rights-based project in the municipality of Baras, Rizal being implemented by Handicap International.

Supported by the European Union and Swiss Solidarity, the project aims to increase the access of persons with disabilities to different developmental (livelihood, social, etc.) opportunities while strengthening the capacities of the local development stakeholders in implementing more inclusive and accessible programs and services.

The REBUILD Project also endeavours to build the capacity and empower the Baras Disabled People’s Organization for them to become a significant and active local development stakeholder that will ensure that the needs and rights of persons with disabilities are taken into account in development and disaster risks management in the locality of Baras.

The project is guided by the overall objective of improving the access to social and economic rights of persons with disabilities (rights holders) while building the capacity of development stakeholders (duty bearers) to make their services more inclusive.

Working with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Baras, the Baras Federation of Persons with Disabilities Associations, Inc. (BFPWDAI) and Tahananang Walang Hagdanan (TWH), the project endeavoured to achieve two main results, to wit: 

Baras Disabled People’s Organization (DPO) successfully promotes and advocates for the rights and needs of persons with disabilities both at municipal and barangay levels



Baras LGU and barangay council as well as livelihood, social welfare services and human rights stakeholders have better capacity to address the needs of persons with disabilities

The REBUILD Project is an inclusive local development and rightsbased project in the municipality of Baras, Rizal being implemented

by Handicap International

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DPO officers work together with Handicap International staff members.

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Aiming to reach the above targets, the REBUILD Project implemented several activities which include the following: 

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Conduct of Local Participatory Diagnosis (which aims to study the situation of people with disabilities in the area and determine points of intervention and support) Awareness-raising on disability rights and inclusion (which focuses on the design and implementation of awareness activities and events targeting specific or general audiences) DPO strengthening and capacity building (which covers organizational development, peer educators training and support, training and coaching on advocacy and inclusion, support in the conduct of awareness actions) LGU and stakeholders training and support (which includes s training on disability, coaching and technical support on inclusion, creation of a referral system)

The project is also a consolidation of a previous engagement of Handicap International in Baras which provided emergency assistance during the aftermath of Typhoon Ketsana in the year 2009. The said intervention is focused on the three pilot areas of the projects which are barangays San Juan, San Jose, and Pinugay wherein the most needs were identified.

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Workshop participants discuss the task at hand.

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OVERALL PROJECT STRATEGY The Inclusive Local Development (ILD) Approach is based on the key notions of decentralization and citizen participation at the local level.

It is a development model that promotes equality and the widest participation at the grassroots level.

Decentralization is the transfer of expertise and resources from the national level authorities to the local level, creating more autonomy for local government units to design and manage their own programs and budgets. Citizen participation means having the possibility to influence community plans and programs by contributing to the decision making processes.

Inclusive Local Development allows people with disabilities to enjoy the same rights as any other members of the society as well as active participant in designing and implementing policies, programs and projects are designed and evaluated with regards to the impact on the lives of people with disabilities as well as other citizens at the local level.

The ILD is based on the three principles: Participation, Nondiscrimination and Accessibility Participation The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) cites the obligation to "closely consult with and actively involve persons with disabilities, including children with disabilities, through their representative organizations (...) in the development and implementation of legislation and policies to implement the present Convention, and in other decision-making processes concerning issues relating to persons with disabilities� (CRPD Article 4.3). The participation requirement is also reflected in the following reference to inclusive development: "partnership with relevant international and regional organizations

The Inclusive Local Development Approach is a development model that promotes equality and the widest participation at the grassroots level

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The ILD’s principle of eliminating discrimination (direct or indirect) espouses the concept of equal opportunities

and civil society, in particular organizations of persons with disabilities� (CRPD Article 32).

Recognizing the importance of participation in ensuring the relevance and sustainability of any development action, the project pushed for the active involvement of people with disabilities in local development process to put forward their rights and empower them to come out and participate. Overcoming the various hindrances that limit the participation of people with disabilities requires intensive awareness-raising to change attitudes and perspectives and persuade families, development actors and the society as whole to be open to the participation of people with disabilities.

Non-discrimination The ILD’s principle of eliminating discrimination (direct or indirect) espouses the concept of equal opportunities. Direct discrimination refers to the less favourable treatment of a person than another in a similar situation, like not allowing children with disability in a particular program for the reason of having a disability. On the other hand, indirect discrimination happens when specific actions or projects causes a disadvantage for people with disabilities. An example for this is the difficulty of accessing services like health or civil registration because of physically inaccessible offices.

It is essential to ensure an equal chance for all to access an opportunity, taking into consideration that people do not have the same starting point. This means that to attain a development that includes everyone, plans and actions should not create barriers that disable people with disabilities from accessing services and enjoying their rights. Non-discrimination therefore means that given the fact that people with disabilities are not on the same starting point, stakeholders should consider their needs and facilitate their access to their services.

Accessibility Pushing for non-discrimination implies the consideration of accessibility issues. Accessibility must allow people with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life. As per the CRPD, State Parties should take appropriate measures to ensure

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to persons with disabilities access, on an equal basis with others, to the physical environment, to transportation, to information and communications, including information and communications technologies and systems, and to other facilities and services open or provided to the public, both in urban and in rural areas" (CRPD Article 9).

Accessibility calls for the application of the Universal Design principle which considers the needs, not only of people with disabilities but of other vulnerable sectors like older persons, women, children in the design of particular project so that everyone can access services and participate in community or socio-political undertakings. Simply, it is requesting for “reasonable accommodation” or the careful consideration of their needs and the carrying out of ‘small’ changes/ adjustments to accommodate the needs so that people with disabilities can participate.

Baras Mayor Kathrine Robles addresses participants of the Disability-Inclusive Employers’ Forum.

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Trainees simulate a disability-inclusive evacuation.

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PROJECT METHODOLOGY Following the Twin-Track Approach, the project brings together organizations that represent persons with disabilities, local government units, and other service providers. This holistic approach ensures that representatives of people with disabilities have strengthened capacities to raise awareness and mobilize support services to ensure that the needs and issues of the sector are being met and addressed.

In effect, local authorities and other stakeholders have increased awareness of the various disability issues and strengthened their capacities in developing policies and programs that are more inclusive.

The project believes that this engagement between the rights-holders and duty-bearers will result to a greater access to services and bring about genuine development.

The Twin-Track Approach to Disability-Inclusive Development

Actively include disability in a cross-cutting manner in all development actions, programmes, and policies

Support specific initiatives to empower and strengthen the capacities of people with disabilities

Equality of rights and opportunities for people with disabilities

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BFPWDAI President Angelito Donaldo “Boy” Roxas Sr. talks about disability rights.

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ABOUT THE DOCUMENT The goal of this document is to highlight good practices that led to the mainstreaming of disability into local development. From a series of workshops, interviews, and focus group discussions, lessons and good practices are compiled and then analyzed to provide recommendations. This document identified good practices under select activities, specifically, Awareness-Raising, Support to DPO and Support to LGU and Stakeholders.

REBUILD Project team members documented good practice in the project which were then discussed and analyzed through a workshop with the team, DPO members and key stakeholders. The analyses resulted to the formulation of recommendations. The recommendations aim to provide concrete and practical steps on how other organizations, DPOs, local government units, public and private stakeholders can effectively take part in Inclusive Local Development.

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A DPO member distributes a flyer during the NDPR Week celebration in 2013.

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GOOD PRACTICES & RECOMMENDATIONS 1. AWARENESS RAISING Adapting and Contextualizing Information for Knowledge Sharing

BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT During the project’s exploratory phase, the Baras DPO Federation recognized its organisational limitation in promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in local development plans. This limitation is due to a lack of experience in organisational structures and the skills required for effective functioning. This organisational deficit was reflected in a number of areas, to include their inability in disseminating advocacy messages representing the needs and concerns of the disability sector.

The DPO was supported by the project by strengthening its capacity to design and implement awareness activities through trainings, coaching and participatory consultations.

Disability issues, rights, laws and inclusive practices are the key topics that need to be transmitted to stakeholders to create awareness and gather support to promote equality and inclusion. Similarly, awareness on disability rights must be created in the general public perception to ensure ground level support.

To ensure the widest possible audience, the project recognised the importance of localising the information and key messages to be transmitted.

Disability issues, rights, laws and inclusive practices are the key topics that need to be transmitted to stakeholders

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Information and communication materials in printed formats subscribe to the accessibility criteria of large print, visuals graphics, matte paper and local language

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRACTICE In collaboration with local partners and stakeholders, the REBUILD Project developed and designed awareness raising activities, tools and materials, mindful of the accessibility requirements , recognizing local culture and traditions and in tandem with planned events/ activities of local agencies, stakeholders and partners.

Information and communication materials in printed formats subscribe to the accessibility criteria of large print, visuals graphics, matte paper and local language.

In consultation with members of the vision impaired community and members of the deaf community, a number of alternative information sharing formats, including audio and visual, were explored and tested, to ensure full access for a range of impairments. Audio and video materials were developed, presenting key messages on disability rights which were all utilized in regular community-based awareness actions and made available on the HI website and social media accounts for wider dissemination.

A number of disability rights awareness events were planned and delivered incorporating local traditions and cultural practices. This included the use of arches to depict specific themes and herald community events. During the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR), all 10 barangays of Baras erected welcome arches (steel or wood arches usually found by the entrance to a certain barangay) with recycled materials, artworks, and indigenous resources to represent disability rights and to share key messages. Traditionally, arches are decorated during community fiestas and celebration but on this occasion, the arches were transformed into a channel for reiterating the message of equality and empowerment.

To reach the schools in Baras, high school and elementary students were invited to participate in an inter-school poster competition with disability rights as a theme. In addition, an educational disability positive film was subtitled using the Filipino language and presented to students, teachers, people with disabilities, their families and the community.

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Similarly, an inclusive disaster risk reduction (DRR) awareness contribution was presented by HI and the DPO in one of the schools in Baras by the demonstration on inclusive practice during emergency drills.

Lastly, to encourage the support of stakeholders in the formal business sector, the project developed a win-win-win concept, highlighting the positive aspects of employing people with disabilities This concept was packaged in a brochure, and was the recurring theme of a dinner event which was attended by key players from the business sector in Baras. The activity also had testimonials on successful employment experiences by people with disabilities. The event was supported by government officials, including the Office of the Mayor.

Baras Mayor Kathrine Robles opens the exhibit in celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 2013.

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Awareness actions should be integrated into the community’s existing culture and tradition

THE PROCESS 

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DPO members were actively involved in scheduling, planning and delivering awareness events to ensure their ownership and long term sustainability. Schedules of local events and barangay/ municipal activities were noted and awareness activities were scheduled on these dates.

Information materials were developed in consultation and collaboration with the DPO and pre-tested to people with disabilities. For forums and similar activities, successful experiences of people with disabilities were used to promote a positive image of disability.

Post event review meetings and evaluations were carried out with DPO members to ensure learning, and to gather recommendations to be incorporated in future events. Following learning needs analysis, needs-driven training was provided to members to improve the quality of the activities.

Key local government actors, including the Mayor, were consulted in targeting specific sectors, such as the business and education sector. Encouragement from the “top level” ensures maximum attendance at events.

RECOMMENDATIONS Localize awareness activities Awareness actions should be integrated into the community’s existing culture and tradition. It is important to study and take note of sociocivic events, local festivals and celebrations and design awareness activities around these occasions. By doing so, connection with the community is built and attention is generated as key messages and themes are imbedded in traditional practices.

Involve local partners Involvement of local partners in the design and development of information and communication materials, builds ownership and encourages cooperation. Utilizing local media is also an effective way of relaying awareness-raising messages.

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Ensure accessibility of awareness tools and materials Modification of awareness materials according to accessibility standards not only facilitates the transfer of information but also sends the very message of the importance of accessibility of services.

Identify disability rights advocates

Select people with disabilities exhibiting commitment and capacity to share information in the communities. Provide training and coaching, with support to conduct disability rights awareness sessions in the barangays regularly. This is vital so that partners and community’s interest in the disability agenda is sustained.

DPO members bring slogans during the parade on National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week 2014.

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RAISING AWARENESS (1) One of the arches built by Baras residents during the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPD) Week in July 2014. (2) Handicap International’s Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) Project Manager Erick Caballero trains local health workers on the basics of CVD risk factors. (3) Baras Persons with Disabilities Affairs Focal Person Leah Mercado talks about disability issues during the NDPD 2013. (4) Baras Federation of Persons with Disabilities Associations, Inc. Secretary Kelly Moral answers questions raised by people with disabilities during the organization’s General Assembly in 2013. (5) Baras Mayor Kathrine Robles cuts the ceremonial ribbon to the exhibit displayed during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 2013.

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2 TO BARAS AND TO THE WORLD (1) Baras Mayor Kathrine Robles and Municipal Hall employees view the exhibit during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) in 2013. (2) Persons with disabilities join the sports fest during the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week in 2013. (3) Kenneth joins (and wins) the poster-making contest in the NDPR Week 2013. (4) Children with disabilities dance to the tune of a popular song during the NDPR Week 2013 celebration. (5) A member of the Baras Federation of Persons with Disabilities Associations, Inc. hands out flyers during the IDPD 2013 motorcade around town.

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BFPWDAI President Angelito Donaldo “Boy” Roxas Sr.

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2. DISABLED PEOPLE’S ORGANIZATION (DPO) Supporting the Organization to Become an Active Local Stakeholder

BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT The Baras Federation of Persons with Disabilities Associations, Inc. (BFPWDAI) was established in 2009. Despite being around for three years prior to the project, its organisational structure was weak, with minimal participation in the local development process Given this, the project aimed to focus on building the capacities of the Baras DPO to ensure that it is adequately organized to represent the interests of people with disabilities. It was recognized that the federation needed in-depth training in advocacy skills to promote disability rights.

Without advocacy skills the organisation could not adequately represent its members for inclusion in the decision making process at local and municipal levels.

The planned action was to provide an intensive capacity building program in organizational development, leading to a stronger legitimacy and credibility.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRACTICE Supporting a fledgling organization to become an active part of the local development requires two primary interventions:

Strengthening internal organisational structure  Capacity building to enable equal and active participation in the local development process. 

The project implemented these interventions in a number of ways, to include training sessions, one to one coaching, participative workshops, activity based learning and peer learning. The topics covered included organisational development, advocacy, disability rights, mainstreaming disability, access and inclusion.

The Baras Federation of Persons with Disabilities Associations, Inc. (BFPWDAI) was established in 2009

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2.1 DPO Internal Information Cascading and Knowledge Sharing Process

The REBUILD Project’s experience illustrates the added value of a three-tier information sharing cascade approach in skills and knowledge (HI to municipal DPO federation then DPO member to barangay-based DPOs). This system in turn created a pool of potential leaders to ensure continuity in leadership.

This strategy proved effective, encouraging the trickledown effect of information. Trained DPO leaders and members echoed their acquired skills and knowledge to baragay-based DPO through coaching. These potential leaders formed core groups in each barangay to promote and support the DPO federation.

THE PROCESS  

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The REBUILD Project’s experience illustrates the added value of a three-tier information sharing cascade approach in skills and knowledge

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Training in organization strengthening and advocacy were provided to key members of the Baras DPO Federation.

Trained DPO federation members were supported to echo their gained knowledge and information to their members in the barangay level.

Barangay-based DPO members showing potential leadership capacities were identified and formed into a core group, with indepth training and coaching provided by the DPO federation and HI. Regular coordination meetings and feedback sessions were conducted to address current needs and concerns in terms of coaching and support.

RECOMMENDATIONS Establish a cascade mechanism or an echoing system DPOs should be supported in ensuring the timely and systematic sharing of information to other members. Municipal DPO federation should be guided in establishing a good method of disseminating information through the organisational ranks.

Design a training plan around the DPO’s self identified internal needs, not around external suppositions and perceptions. Allow for flexibility and ongoing refresher training sessions.

Create core groups or a pool of potential leaders Strengthen the skills and capacities of current leaders, and also mould potential leaders. Select people demonstrating leadership and advocacy skills; provide training to build on their existing skills in information sharing and advocacy.

Define criteria for the identification of core group members Criteria could include interest, ability, willingness, motivation and dedication. This will is to ensure continuity in leadership style and to prevent a dependence on one person.

DPO members attend a session at a barangay hall.

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Merfe Galoyo Assuming Leadership Barangay Pinugay is one of the pilot barangays of the project.

Relatively, Pinugay’s barangay-based DPO was one of the most recent ones to have been formed. But Merle Galoyo, newlyelected president of SAPIKAP (Samahan sa Pinugay ng mga Taong May Kapansanan), takes pride in the fact that she was part of group that underwent training and coaching that made her ready to assume her current position.

Merfe and other members of the group attended several trainings by HI or by the Baras DPO Federation. “We are people with disabilities who wanted to be a strong group, with a voice and credibility in our community,” she expressed. But attaining this dream did not happen overnight. Merfe and other members of the group attended several trainings by HI or shared with them by DPO federation members who were previously trained by HI. The trainings included community organizing, organizational development, strengthening internal structures, effective communication and advocacy proved over the past two years. It also covered areas such as leadership, event organizing, basic facilitation/public speaking.

Before the REBUILD Project in Baras, Merfe revealed that she used to be very shy and would often isolate herself from people because of her impairment. But with the various capacity-building and skills development trainings, Merfe, like other persons with disabilities in her barangay, gained confidence and honed her skills to become an active part of the community.

As she shares, “I gained a whole new perspective about disability and the possibilities of becoming an agent of change from my mentors.”

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2.2 Assuming an Advisory Role for Local Government Planning and Service Providers

After training DPO members to develop various competencies, individual coaching increased their advisory capacity. Coaching on advocacy skills (which covers agenda development, communication and representation) and technical knowledge on inclusion (which tackles specific actions and practical recommendation on disability mainstreaming in local plans) was provided regularly to DPO leaders.

While coaching was an anticipated support to the DPO, the need for a higher level of technical knowledge on mainstreaming and inclusion measures surfaced once the DPOs began engaging with stakeholders. General knowledge on disability mainstreaming and inclusion had to be reinforced with practical guides in specific sectors like infrastructure, health, disaster risk reduction and livelihoods. The municipal federation and each barangay-based DPO had different needs, depending on the sector which demanded support. This resulted in the need for individualized coaching for specific barangays. The project addressed this need and enhanced the training sessions with practical guides on how to mainstream disability into various themes.

THE PROCESS 

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A two-pronged approach in supporting DPO was conducted by the project . On one side was training in the technical and specific skills required, such as disability rights, legislation, inclusion, access. On the other side was the soft skills element, to include communication , interpersonal and negotiating skills, public presentations.

In collaboration with the DPO and in response to the expressed needs of its members, guidelines in practical recommendations were developed and served as a starting document for the creation of inclusion standards and indicators.

The project ensured that the DPO has a good understanding of the local government decentralization system by including barangay governance and discussing salient provisions of the Philippines’ Local Government Code in the training and by

After training DPO members to develop various competencies, individual coaching increased their advisory capacity

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constant coordination with local government agencies.

While DPO support was being provided, the project was simultaneously preparing the LGU to accept the DPO’s participation. This was done through awareness actions, dialogues and technical support to provide ideas on how disability can be integrated in their current programs and projects.

RECOMMENDATIONS Build advocacy skills and enrich knowledge on inclusion Capacity building on advocacy and communication should be complemented with orientation and training on disability mainstreaming and inclusion. While soft skills on speaking and representation are being enhanced, sharing of information and knowledge on disability concepts, rights, laws and practical application practices should be given equal attention. This would ensure the preparedness of the DPO in participating in consultations and meetings-effectively delivering the message of inclusion through a good technical knowledge and communication skills.

Understand government decentralization and identify opportunities for inclusion

Orientation and training on the decentralization and its impact on the local government where the project intervenes is essential

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To be able to successfully take part in the local government processes, it is essential for project team members and the DPO to have a good grasp of the decentralization of the government and the activities relative to it. Orientation and training on the decentralization and its impact on the local government where the project intervenes is essential. Similarly, familiarity with the local development planning process and public finance and budgeting would guide the project strategy and the definition of support to be provided to the DPO and stakeholders. This would include the Bottom Up Budgeting (BUB) or Grassroots Participatory Budgeting and Planning (GPBP) where disability mainstreaming could be best done as it invites sectoral participation and targets the most vulnerable groups.

Coordinate closely with government actors Maximize link with government agencies as an information source (for laws, issuances, plans, projects) and as a partner (as the leader of

consultative processes and main actor for implementation) in the attainment of a good status as an active part of consultative bodies ad councils.

Ensure the integration of specific indicators of the participation of people with disabilities in consultation mechanisms Consecutive trainings could possibly sideline a DPO’s vision. Whilst strengthening their capacity and skills, ample time should be allotted for the application of acquired skills and knowledge . This means that the DPO should have a concrete picture of the specific and actual actions that they should be carrying out as a result of the trainings and coaching and not just a global perspective of representation and advocacy.

Baras employers and local government officials attend the Disability-Inclusive Employers’ Forum.

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Grace Librea Representing the sector Grace Librea is the DPO leader of Barangay Santiago, one of the two barangays which has drafted an inclusive a development plan for 2015. Grace shares her strategy in determining how she can influence the planning process. “It was not enough to say, ‘include us!’ The barangay council members would quiz us about our request in relations to specific sectors of the plan. We should be able to provide them with concrete examples, of how to exactly do it,” she says.

Coaching was then provided by HI, in collaboration with the municipal DPO federation, to Grace as well as to other DPO leaders who expressed a similar need. Using the barangay’s annual investment plan formats and considering each barangay’s context, specific measures were identified on how disability concerns can be integrated in the plans. Grace saw four themes in which she thought the concerns of her fellow persons with disabilities in the barangays can be considered.

Backed by continuous awareness sessions and formal and informal dialogues, she proceeded to take part in the barangay planning process and eventually integrated her concerns into the plans.

“I picked health, education, livelihood and DRR. In health, I volunteered our database as a source of information in selecting beneficiaries of feeding programs so that children with disabilities can be included,” she explains. Knowing about the barangay’s livelihood and education projects, Grace lobbied that selection committees include the DPO as a member so that identification of beneficiaries satisfies a certain vulnerability criteria. And lastly, with her training on DRR, she suggested that hazard maps identify houses of people with disabilities. She adds, “ I also told them that hazard warning systems should reach everyone and we can help them in designing these so that it caters to our communication needs as people with various impairments.”

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Baras DPO Acting as accessibility and inclusion consultants The Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) tapped the Baras DPO federation’s support in improving their services.

Acting as accessibility consultants, DPO members, along with DPO beneficiaries of livelihood trainings, reviewed printed and audio training materials of the MAO and provided inputs on how to make them more accessible. The Participatory Training Curricula Development utilized a simple checklist which measured the materials’ accessibility.

They also assumed an ‘advisory capacity’ for DRR when they became observers during an earthquake drill in the municipality, forwarding comments and suggestions on how to make disaster response disability-inclusive. As part of the Municipal DRR council, their trainings in DRR and the ad hoc technical support of the project has indeed prepared them well. Also, four members of the DPO are currently members of the Medical Responder Team, proving that persons with disabilities can be active partners and not just mere recipients of assistance and support. During the training for this team, the four members were consulted in transfer and rescue techniques of people with disabilities which ensured the disability-consciousness of the actions. Lastly, an accessibility audit group has been former with the DPO leaders and members as members.

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2.3 Training Peer Educators and Expanding the Advocacy Network

Persons with disabilities were tapped as bearers of information and disability rights advocates and are called peer educators. A peer educator, generally a member of the Baras DPO federation, has the following responsibilities: 

  

Raise awareness on disability rights and laws and introduce the DPO and its activities and role through the conduct of regular awareness activities Provide access to information and services to persons with disability in the communities Provide services such as referrals to neighbouring person with disability in collaboration with MSWDO. Source information tools to be utilized in awareness sessions

To support peer educators to deliver these responsibilities, a range of training sessions on disability concepts, inclusion , disability identification, public speaking and even on the referral system, were provided by the project.

Persons with disabilities were tapped as bearers of information and disability rights advocates and are called peer educators

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A good practice is the integration of peer educators into the barangay structure. The project collaborated with barangay local government units in the identification and selection of peer educators based on the pre agreed criteria. Having this collaboration at the onset created a system that aimed to recognize peer educators as part of the barangay volunteer network.

This barangay recognition proved to be beneficial for the peer educators as it allowed them increased credibility as disability advocates. This success resulted in the barangay councils’ openness in allowing persons with disabilities to participate in barangay official activities. Peer educators are now considered as barangay volunteers, with some of them enjoying small incentives from the council to cover transportation costs incurred in conducting sessions in far-flung areas. This partnership, along with the countless awareness activities has, in a way, facilitated the representation and/or participation of the disability sector in select barangay planning activities.

With the success of this strategy, the project collected all training modules and compiled it to become a document called “Peer Educators Manual: A tool in training peer educating in conducting disability rights awareness actions.”

THE PROCESS 

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Peer educators were recruited based on selection criteria agreed within the DPO and in consultation with barangay local government units.

Ongoing training sessions on disability concepts, rights and laws, active citizenship and communication skills were provided by the project.

Supplemental knowledge and information on disability identification and referral process to services were provided to help peer educators establish bridges between users and service providers.

Awareness kits were provided to the peer educators to support them in the conduct of awareness sessions in the barangays. The kits consisted of brochures, leaflets, audio and video materials which were all developed with the peer educators’ support.

The entire process of training peer educators was documented and compiled into a training manual.

Peer educators meet with Handicap International staff.

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Roberto Cortez Peer educator and disability rights advocate Roberto Cortez is 64 years old and has vision impairment. He is a peer educator. “It is our job to educate them and to put them in the right perspective that they have rights and that there are laws that protect it. We are here because we are the best people to ask our fellow people with disabilities to come out, participate and enjoy their rights,” he says.

Holding two sessions monthly and entertaining questions from the community, he is adept with the disability rights and laws as a result of training and intensive coaching of the project. His information package during awareness sessionspublic or individual/informal, include the discussion of disability concepts, laws and rights. He also introduces the DPO as a group which can support them. He admits that his responsibility is far from easy. To him, the most difficult part of it is sustaining the interest and participation of his fellow person with disability and their families. “The main hindrance was that while people with disabilities would attend one or two sessions, you cannot count on them to come out again and participate in community activities.”

But months after starting his advocacy, Roberto shares, “we felt and saw the difference brought about by our efforts.” He mentions that there is now an improved perception of people with disabilities. Barangays have welcomed people with disabilities as part of barangay consultations and dialogues, freely discussing their concerns and articulating their thoughts. “We have also influenced other groups-women, barangay health workers—all of them, when there is an activity, they make sure that people with disabilities are comfortable and accommodated well,” he adds.

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RECOMMENDATIONS Build on the peer-to-peer approach Support groups proved to be beneficial both in raising awareness and facilitating access to services. As always, peer-to-peer approach eases communication barriers and personalized support allows trust building and confidence boosting.

Train peer educators on ‘boundary management’ To prevent creating a dependency culture, peer educators have to be trained how to manage relationships and responsibilities. It must be instilled to peer educators that they are not working for their fellow people with disabilities, but rather as part of their support network.

Establish a good monitoring system For efficient and effective fulfilment of tasks, regular review and support meetings has to be conducted. These would allow peer educators to share challenges with each other and address specific needs and concerns that come out during their field activities.

Expand the network of service providers Vital in the ILD approach is the creation of links between service providers and people with disabilities through referral, information and guidance mechanisms. These links are established through a thorough mapping and identification of public or private institutions and groups that can cater to the needs of people with disabilities.

Using information from the local participatory diagnosis, services needed can be identified and providers can be tapped.

Vital in the ILD approach is the creation of links between service providers and people with disabilities through referral, information and guidance mechanisms

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2.4 Developing a Model for Start-up DPO to Facilitate Information and Experience Sharing

The experiences and learning of the Baras DPO federation and the barangay-based DPO were comprehensively documented throughout the project intervention. This facilitated the development of a model/ guide for start-up DPOs. Tools used for Organizational Capacity Assessments, training modules on organizational strengthening, awareness-raising and advocacy and the experiences of the members were compiled and collected to produce publications which would serve as reference documents for other DPOs and development actors in promoting for a disability-inclusive development.

Firstly, the tool that was utilized in the conduct of Organizational Capacity Assessment (OCA) was revised according to the learning from the activity, and produced for sharing with other organizations.

Secondly, modules in training peer educators were compiled and were packaged as a reference tool, together with field experiences of peer educators. Lastly, guidelines on how to advocate for disability rights in local development planning were developed in consultation with the DPO. These guidelines contain specific actions to be implemented to facilitate inclusive local development and reference materials relative to internal organizational strengthening, awareness raising and employing inclusive practices.

THE PROCESS 

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Activities in terms of DPO support were documented, taking note of significant learning and any modification made throughout the project implementation. Activity designs, manuals used, presentations shared and materials used and photographs were compiled and organized.

Participatory workshops with the DPO were conducted to collect information, validate practices and experiences and gather recommendations from the challenges encountered.

The publications were written using the first person point of view to establish a DPO-to-fellow-DPO conversational tone.

Results of the workshops and draft copies of the publications were presented to the DPO for cross-checking and validation. Once validated, the materials were produced according to accessibility standards and disseminated widely.

RECOMMENDATIONS Ensure proper documentation of all activities A team member or an external consultant should be tasked to document the implementation of activities. It is important that time and effort be devoted to this aspect as agreements, discussions and results would be difficult to capture through recollection. Training/ activity reports must be prepared promptly. Activity designs used, manuals and tools utilized , adjustments made and photographs taken should be compiled after each activity. It is also important that activity reviews and evaluation be conducted to determine areas needing improvement and modifications and such actions should all be included in the activity/training report.

DPO officers work together during a workshop.

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Explore support from other DPOs and institutions To be able to come up with a good set of manuals and reference materials for other DPOs and LGUs to follow, tap other agencies to supplement the capacity building that the project is providing to the DPOs. This experience of external support widens the horizon of information and knowledge sharing and increases the quality of documents/publication that the DPO will produce with the organization’s support.

Conduct lesson learning and activity review workshops strategically For a more comprehensive and organized documentation and review process, it is vital that development of similar guidelines and publications, lesson learning/collection of good practices should be strategically scheduled along the project implementation period and not just towards closure. This would ensure a gradual but timely collection of activity outputs and experiences which would guarantee the quality of manual/publication produced.

Collaborate/coordinate with CSOs and people’s organizations Disability is a cross-cutting issue and linking with other organizations like older persons, fisher folks, farmers and women could strengthen the DPO’s advocacy actions. Explore the possibility of forming coalitions to yield greater leverage.

To be able to come up with a good set of manuals and reference materials for other DPOs and LGUs to follow, tap other agencies to supplement the capacity building that the project is providing to the DPOs.

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DPO officers work together with Handicap International staff members.

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Participants sign their commitment to inclusion during an economic forum.

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3. STAKEHOLDERS Enabling Development Actors to Deliver Inclusive Services

BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT One of the major obstacles hindering the participation of people with disabilities in Baras is lack of access to basic services like health, livelihood and education. This is due to a number of reasons, to include, people with disabilities not having the knowledge of existing services, and service providers not knowing how to include disability concerns in their policies, plans and programs thus unintentionally discriminating against people with disabilities.

Consultations prior to the launch of the REBUILD Project indicated that public and private stakeholders generally do not take into consideration disability issues and are not providing specific support to people with disabilities. To ensure that services become inclusive and accessible to people with disabilities, the project focused on working with stakeholders and development actors to support them in improving services to reach the most vulnerable and ensure sustainability.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRACTICE Following the twin-track approach, stakeholders must be trained and supported technically in the employment of inclusive measures.

Training covered the of basic concepts on disability rights and inclusion. In the REBUILD Project’s experience, government leaders and/or agency heads require concrete and practical examples and recommendations on how to include disability issues in the official planning process.

As mentioned earlier, technical knowledge on inclusion in is crucial for the DPO, being considered the ‘specialist/ technical consultants’ during meetings and planning dialogues. To stakeholders, this knowledge is crucial. Having technical knowledge on inclusion and disability rights and legislation helps them incorporate inclusive practice in their organizations and agencies.

To ensure that services become inclusive and accessible to people with disabilities, the project focused on working with stakeholders and development actors to support them in improving services to reach the most vulnerable and ensure sustainability

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The REBUILD Project offered reference materials, including a compilation of laws and minimum requirements, provided tangible examples and devoted a significant amount of time for intensive coaching to government agency officials and heads. These interventions, coupled with large scale awareness actions created a solid foundation for barangays and agencies not only to welcome DPO participation, but also to take their own initiatives to be more inclusive.

3.1 Participatory Training Curricula Development (PTCD) for Livelihood Skills Training for the Municipal Agriculture Office

In line with the project’s aim of making services accessible, including livelihoods, training skills providers were supported to ensure training methodologies addressed the needs of a range of learning needs.

Demands for greater accessibility in training methodologies and curricula were raised by participants following livelihood skills training of the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO). A number of these participants have impairments, including vision and hearing. This prompted the project, in cooperation with the training providers and the DPO to conduct Participatory Training Curricula Development (PTCD) workshop sessions in order to address the need for more accessible livelihood skills trainings.

The activity gathered DPO leaders, people with hearing and vision impairments and representatives of the Municipal Agriculture Office.

Existing training materials in print and audio were reviewed and pretested by the DPO and people with disabilities using an accessibility criteria which includes print type, language used, selection of photos, clarity of audio, etc. Based also on the requests of training participants, handouts are printed to supplement the need for ‘review’ materials and audio productions were made for those with vision impairment.

Recommendations collected from the workshop served as the basis for the re-designing and revision of existing and the development of

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new training materials. A copy of the checklist and guide in producing accessible training materials was endorsed to the Municipal Agriculture Officer who committed to subscribe to the said guide in conducting future trainings.

THE PROCESS  

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Potential service providers of technical skills training were mapped.

Coordination meetings with MAO were held to provide orientation/technical support on accessible and inclusive communication for the training tools and methodology.

Profile of trainees, including information on the type of their impairments, were provided to the training provider.

MAO was assisted in ensuring accessibility of presentations by submitting their modules for review and training methodology was modified to address communication and physical accessibility.

Initial trainings were reviewed and needs for handouts and audio recordings were addressed. Upon revision, the handouts and the recordings were pre-tested to people with disabilities. From this, a more comprehensive type of support in the form of Participatory Training Curricula Development (PTCD) was established.

A municipal agriculture officer trains REBUILD Project beneficiaries on how to prepare hog feed.

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RECOMMENDATIONS Increase awareness of service providers on training accessibility needs It is important that training skills service providers are aware of the presence and learning needs of people with impairments. Providing service providers a profile of participants and sharing information on how to make trainings accessible are the first steps for them to consider disability concerns.

Establish a collaboration between livelihood service providers and people with disabilities

Familiarity and a good understanding of the existing programs and processes is essential in gaining commitment and support

DPO members and people with disabilities can provide recommendations in providing accessible trainings through consultations and module reviews. In support of initial awareness actions, coordination and dialogue with representatives of the disability sector is important to intensify the service provider’s awareness on the need of the vulnerable population.

Support livelihood stakeholder in institutionalizing the provision of accessible trainings Institutionalization of the use of accessible training tools and methodology in the entire agency can be achieved through close coordination, provision of technical support and production of sample accessible training materials and checklist/criteria to guide them in the development and conduct of future trainings.

Work around the existing program of focus of an office or an agency Familiarity and a good understanding of the existing programs and processes is essential in gaining commitment and support. For example, the cooperation of the MAO in Baras can partly be attributed to the fact that the office’s focal program for the year is Organic Farming. Given that most of the people in Baras are engaged in agricultural activities, the collaboration proved to be a good opportunity for MAO to advance its actions and for HI and the DPO to push for the increased access of people with disabilities to these trainings.

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Yoniza Matamis Delivering accessible trainings Yoniza Matamis of Baras Municipal Agicuture Office shares that her office was once confined to environmental conservation and protection programs and organic farming.

Yoniza adds that her idea of clients was just farmers and fisherfolk, and that her office would just have to send to the Municipal Welfare and Development Office any person with disability who approached them. All these were replaced with a new vision and a fresh zeal to deliver services to everyone who needs it when the REBUILD Project came in.

First, Yoniza cites her better understanding of people with disabilities having equal rights as anyone else. “Given that they too have the same rights as ours, they are then entitled to all the services that the MAO is offering especially that they also have the capacity to do farming or fishing and other work,” says Yoniza. From this awareness, her office started communicating with the Mayor’s Office and to other agencies like the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, Bureau of Fisheries and other agencies about the needs of people with disabilities and other members of the vulnerable sectors. That became the beginning of her office’s newfound passion of delivering livelihood skills training to vulnerable groups.

It was also a big realization for Yoniza learning about the importance of tailoring training materials and methodology in consideration of the learning needs of people with impairments. “I learned that my service to my ‘clients’ would be more efficient if only I would ask them about their needs.

That’s what happened through Rebuild and the DPO. We were trained and we conducted a participatory training curricula development where, along with people with disabilities, we verified if our trainings and actions are inclusive...”

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3.2 Supporting the municipality for Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Practices

The intervention in Baras is a continuation of an earlier support after a disaster in 2009. Included therefore in the REBUILD Project challenges is the employment of efforts to reduce the risk of disasters in the area. Falling under the LGU support component of the project, REBUILD provided assistance to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) through trainings, coaching and support in the conduct of various activities intended to capacitate the community to be prepared for disasters. Inclusive DRR measures aim to ensure that early warning systems are accessible to all, hazard mapping indicate the location of people who may need support, access to relief services and welfare in the camps or evacuation centers of people with disabilities are considered and many others. Part of the intervention is the technical support on DRR activities, sharing of a checklist on how inclusion can be integrated in all disaster risk reduction measures and the representation of people with disabilities in the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC).

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Training on Mainstreaming Disability into Disaster Risk Reduction was provided to DRR actors and DPO members.

Existing contingency plans of the barangays and the municipality were reviewed and feedback was provided on how to make it inclusive.

DPO and HI acted as observers in an earthquake simulation activity and provided feedback to inform the revision of contingency plans. HI and the DPO also acted as panelists/ advisors during an evaluation of the municipality’s response and handling of past disasters, providing inputs on how existing and planned actions can address the needs of the vulnerable sector.

Inclusive DRR checklist was shared with municipal and barangay level DRR councils and coaching was provided to guide them in implementing inclusive DRR actions that cover Early Warning Systems, Sear, Rescue and Evacuation, Camp/Shelter Management and Access to Relief Services.

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Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office is being supported in conducting assessments and trainings on DRR in the barangays.

Firefighters demonstrate how to retrieve a “dead” person during an earthquake drill.

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Close coordination is necessary to avoid duplication and ensure the convergence of actions

RECOMMENDATIONS Highlight the importance of making DRR management participatory In following-up the initial training on disability mainstreaming given to local agency representatives, more intensive information sharing on DRR should focus on the principles of inclusive DRR. This should revolve around the concept higher vulnerability and expansive capacity of people with disability. While specifying the reasons why the sector should be given utmost consideration in all levels of DRR management, bring up as well the possibilities of involving them as proactive participants of any DRR actions.

Support the Municipal DRR Management Office’s vision Mandated by law to perform the responsibilities of preparing for, responding to and rebuilding after disasters, humanitarian organizations, NGOs and other groups together with the DPO should respect and adapt to the plans and vision of the MDRRMO. Close coordination is necessary to avoid duplication and ensure the convergence of actions.

Support in actual response actions after every hazardous events The occurrence of hazards should be seen as an opportunity to assess the status of the municipality of barangay’s disaster response mechanisms and to use the experience and observations as a springboard to improve the current system. Also, providing postdisaster support (whatever form) is quite expected of an organization presently functioning in the locality and espousing inclusive DRR .

Strengthen the capacity of the DPO as member of the M/BDRRMC DPO members sitting in the Municipal or barangay DRR council should be technically credible to represent the organization in the DRR thematic. Familiarity with the disability situation in his/her area is important as well as coaching as follow-up to DRR trainings.

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Rosendo Amonelo Pushing for inclusive disaster risk reduction Rosendo Amonelo of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Council has been working for the municipality of Baras for nine years and is familiar with the REBUILD Project even before it dealt with other local officials. However, what made Rosendo different from the others was his openness to the concept of inclusion in disaster management. Rosendo says that a lot has changed in Baras since the Project came.

One of the most significant changes Rosendo witnessed is how the making of plans became more proper and participatory. In a significant way, Handicap International revisited the mandate and responsibilities of his office through activities like participatory contingency planning and the integration of disability issues in DRR measures. Rosendo also noted how the Local Chief Executive has become very open to suggestions especially on disaster risk reduction and management. One of the ways that made him more confident was when he saw how the mayor became more receptive; thus he was able to request for equipment needed and for the unused budget especially for this year. This year, he made sure that the budget for disaster preparedness would be used properly by proposing to buy different inclusive Early Warning System devices such as flags, sound systems and the like. These materials were also discussed during consultative sessions with Handicap International.

Just recently, he proposed a barangay-based activity on disaster preparedness. He said that the activity was for the sake of sustainability. For him, there are still “a million things to do and preparedness does not stop in trainings.�

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3.3 Providing Support in Ensuring Physical Accessibility

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRACTICE Following training on inclusive local development and technical support on accessibility, local agency staff and members of the Baras DPO Federation formed an Access Audit team to conduct audits of establishments and other structures the locality. Using an audit form, the team assesses the accessibility of public structures, and provides recommendations to the Office of the Engineer for the approval of building permits.

THE PROCESS  

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Training on disability concepts, rights and laws was provided to local agency heads and members of the DPO federation.

Supplemental information on the Accessibility Law and accessibility concepts was given to DPO members through consultation and coaching.

An Audit Team was formed consisting of DPO leaders and members, representatives of partners, Tahanang Walang Hagdanan (TWH) and the Local Government Unit .

An Accessibility Audit tool was developed by the team with the support of the project.

An audit was conducted in 2013 and recommendations were shared with the Municipal Engineering Office.

RECOMMENDATIONS Define Audit Team members’ responsibilities The team should be trained to identify good and bad practice, understand design and layout in regard to disabled access, while identifying obstacles to people with mobility and sensory impairments. In addition, the audit report will then seek to find solutions to access problems, with recommendations and relative costings.

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Provide reference material Distribute a compilation of accessibility laws and issuances or provide a guide on where this legislation can be sourced to supplement the training being provided.

Link with National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Connect with key disability agencies like the NCDA to ensure implementation of Republic Act No. 7277 (otherwise known as Magna Carta for Disabled Persons) and Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 (Accessibility Law) and be guided on other related issuances.

Institutionalize the Audit Team The DPO should initiate that the team becomes a regular part of the local government system relative to the issuance of permits through coordination. Frequency of audits and regular meetings of the team has to determined as well to ensure sustainability.

A Handicap International staff member trains a participant on how to conduct an accessibility audit.

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3.4 Influencing Local Governments to Craft Inclusive Development Plans

Local government units at both barangay and municipal level are the main actors in the local development process. Initially sensitized through disability awareness raising actions, further training and information session were provided in disability rights, inclusion and access and equality legislation. Information and knowledge sharing methods were undertaken consecutively, mostly alongside the DPO members, in an effort to establish good collaboration and coordination mechanisms between them. However, depending on the capacity of the DPO, the organization (HI) might temporarily take the role of being a technical advisor or a recommendatory entity, providing inputs and guidance to the LGU on how their services can address the needs of people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

In situations where DPO capacity on representation and inclusion is already high, coaching and support is still being provided to the LGU but on a needs basis only. On top of all this, awareness actions should be continued and sustained.

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Awareness sessions to target public livelihoods and human rights stakeholders were conducted.

The training was conducted along with DPO members to initiate support and cooperation between the two parties and to allow and exchanges of ideas and interests.

Barangay and municipal level stakeholders were encouraged to employ inclusive practices by sustaining awareness actions and facilitating the link between them and the DPO and by provision of technical support by HI. DPO was linked with the local government units to secure seats in councils and planning bodies and to be able to provide significant recommendations during the development of plans and programs

RECOMMENDATIONS Employ a creative and strategic method of presenting the disability and inclusion agenda Clear definition of concepts, modification of existing modules and use of practical examples are key in gaining the interest of stakeholders on the prospects of inclusive local development. Quality of initial orientations and trainings often determine the level of support that an official or an agency will give to the project. Presentations should be short and should link the project’s planned interventions to the current situation and text. Use of facts, experiences and evidence from similar projects also increases the chance of gaining support.

Local social workers collaborate during a training workshop.

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Ask local officials who have successfully adapted inclusive practices to encourage other barangays to follow suit

Ensure DPO and LGU collective strengthening actions and promotion of inclusion Organizational development and advocacy capacity enhancement for DPOs must be done alongside the promotion of inclusion in the community and to stakeholders. Following the Twin-Track Approach, support to both groups, DPO and stakeholders, should be given at the same time to achieve equalization of opportunities and better access to services.

Introduce practical methods of ensuring inclusion An expressed concern of stakeholders is their lack of knowledge in making their services accessible. Trainings, in most cases, discuss disability concepts and inclusion but does not concretely provide actual ways of applying it to specific services. Stakeholders often prefer having quick reference guides like checklists or pointers. A general checklist on inclusive services can be created or a checklist per theme can be designed. The provision of such simple tools can promote inclusive actions.

Present models and champions of inclusive practices Ask local officials who have successfully adapted inclusive practices to encourage other barangays to follow suit. Sharing of actual experiences is an effective way of convincing others to carry out inclusive measures and allow representation of the disability sector in their planning and other activities.

Support local decision makers to define indicators of DPO participation In aiming for DPO and the disability agenda to be mainstreamed in government plans, a set of concrete indicators could facilitate this process. It is important that decision makers are provided with a clear picture of what the DPO wants to achieve. For example, they have to understand that the DPO intends to be recognized as part of the local planning process, so that the DPO could provide recommendations and aid in the development of plans and projects.

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Ever-Lee Albino Inclusion champion Ever-Lee Albino, 34, is a resident and the current Barangay Captain of San Jose, Baras, Rizal. He says that during the previous administrations, when he was still a barangay councilor, there was no transparency in barangay governance.

It was a time when important decisions and plans were solely crafted and approved by the barangay council, without proper consultation with its constituents. When he became the barangay captain, however, Ever-Lee made sure that the people are made aware of what’s going on in the barangay, particularly when it came to financial matters.

This, he says, is partly attributed to the various trainings that he and his council received from the REBUILD Project. The captain sees that things are now beginning to change in his barangay. People are starting to better understand the concept of disability and are slowly opening up to recognizing that impairment does not hinder a person from contributing towards the development of the community. Just like any other citizen, people with disabilities have a stake in local development. They have the right to participate in making decisions and plans for the development of the community in which they are part of.

As a testament to this, San Jose is one of the few barangays which passed a resolution recognizing the barangay-based disabled people’s organization as a member of the barangay development council (BDC), a local special body which is responsible for planning and implementing local development initiatives. The barangay also allotted a room which would serve as an office for the barangay-based DPO within the barangay hall.

Barangay officials, barangay health workers, and representatives from various sectors of the community

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including persons with disabilities sit down together for the very first time in a participatory barangay development planning session. The barangay takes pride in being able to formulate an inclusive development plan which was drafted in consultation with all sectors of the community. The local chief executive emphasizes that it is important to seek the opinion of his constituents and acknowledge their suggestions for the betterment of the barangay.

Furthering the barangay’s support to the sector, the council decided to build an accessible toilet within the barangay hall with the cash prize they received for winning an arch-making contest during the celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation week in July. A supplementary financial and technical support was also provided by Handicap International as part of its initiative on providing support to BLGUs who are willing to undertake inclusive actions within their locality.

This facility would showcase accessibility features in accordance to the requirements of the Batas Pambansa 344 also known as The Accessibility Law which the disability sector in the municipality is fervently advocating for. This action will also hopefully be emulated by other barangays.

Angelito Fullante Welcoming all sectors Angelito Fullante dons two hats — one as a member of the Baras DPO Federation and another as a Barangay Captain of Santiago. His election as barangay captain already strong statement of empowerment and inclusion itself, Angelo still endeavours each day to promote the rights of people with disabilities.

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As barangay captain and head of the Barangay Development Council, he understands the importance of sectoral representatives in forwarding concerns so it could be included in the plans. “Influencing barangay plans enables the community to participate from the assessment up to the planning phase. People’s organizations including organization of people with disabilities, informal groups and barangay officials meet together in this activity which practice particularly encourages the participation of vulnerable population to get involved in the decision making process of the community,” Angelito explains.

Angelito cites the trainings and support given by HI and the local government as instrumental in attaining this and in enriching their knowledge on inclusion. Coaching sessions from HI also helped a lot of DPO leaders in introducing their concerns on every thematic during the barangay council deliberation specifically on draft development plans. He cited that the other groups, that of women, older persons, fisherfolk and the youth have likewise taken the same stance as a result of the DPO’s call for participation.

“Before this practice (of sectoral representation), took place in our barangay, these groups and organizations only think of what they can get from us. The dole out mentality was a disease that affected development,” notes Angelito. This mentality, he says, gradually changed, such that a dynamic participation from the different sectors became apparent in their barangay.

Ending the conversation, he reiterated that efforts for development should always focus on grassroots level organization and to not forget to “ask them about their dreams and you will know how best you can support them.”

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Firefighters “rescue” a “pregnant” woman during an earthquake drill.

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CONCLUSION Inclusive Local Development analyses existing local practices and systems and aims to adjust, modify and improve them in a manner that disability issues and concerns are taken into consideration so that people with disabilities may be able to enjoy equal rights and opportunities as everyone else.

As illustrated by the good practices and case studies, the achievement of this is dependent on the complementation of actions geared towards promoting access to services.

First, to create a better understanding and acceptance of disability and people with disability in the community, awareness actions would be more effective by adapting it to the local context, sustaining it, empowering people with disabilities and their families in conducting it and involving local actors in it through orientations and training. This was embodied by people with disabilities acting as peer educators and the success of awareness actions which involved everyone in the locality and banked on existing culture and practices.

Secondly, developing and enhancing the capacity of people with disabilities, both as individuals and as a group, means strengthening a DPO’s organizational structure and developing the skills on advocacy, networking and inclusion of its members. This is what the stories of Merfe and Grace prove. It also highlighted the importance of a good understanding of government decentralization and citizen participation to be able to strategically define their actions and moves for partnership and collaboration.

Thirdly, local authorities and stakeholders will be moved to mainstream disability into local policies and programs through sustained awareness actions supported by trainings and intensive coaching to enable them to translate the results of the consultative process to practical actions. This was demonstrated by barangay San Jose, San Juan and the offices of agriculture and disaster risk reduction.

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Experiences of related projects can influence and inspire plans and policies on specific themes and provide a good exhibit of credibility and effectiveness of disability inclusive measures from which local development actors can take after. The concepts of disability, inclusion, accessibility and participation could be difficult for stakeholders to understand that providing examples and practical recommendations becomes necessity. Actions such as the provision of practical tools and guidelines move agencies like the MAO and the MDRRMO to take on the inclusion challenge.

Lastly, a more informed plan of action and an effective project strategy can only be crafted if consultations and participatory diagnosis are carried out. This crucial activity defines the most logical steps towards the achievement of inclusive local development and sets the tone of participation and inclusion among stakeholders, creating one of the first, if not the first, consultation spaces in the project’s life.

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One of the REBUILD Project’s beneficiaries shows off her paper flowers, which she sells as part of her livelihood activity.

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REBUILD Project Site Office G/F Solem Bldg. 212, JP Rizal St. Brgy. Santiago, Baras, Rizal Tel. +63 (02) 234-5404

Handicap International - Philippines 12D Valero Tower, 122 Valero St. (Entrance accessible to wheelchair users: 122 San Agustin St.) Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines 1227 Tel: +63(02) 812 6990 or +63(02) 519 3341 Fax: +63 (02) 892 4583 Email: info@handicapinternational.ph www.handicapinternational.ph Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

The REBUILD Project is implemented with financial support from