The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) supports the call to expedite the passage of the Instituting Services for Learners with Disabilities Bill in Support of Inclusive Education Bill, also popularly known as the Inclusive Education Bill. CHR recognizes the progress made with the said bill, which has passed in the third reading in both Houses of Congress: House Bill No. 8080 on 7 December 2020 and Senate Bill No. 1907 on May 2021. With only a few provisions to reconcile, we hope that the Bicameral Conference Committee will soon conclude the deliberations for the bill to be passed before Congress adjourns.

According to the Department of Education, majority of the 5.5 million Learners with Disabilities have limited access to public education. The Inclusive Education Bill, when passed into law, can significantly help Learners with Disabilities gain equal access to education. The bill will also help remove roadblocks to learning through the establishment of inclusive learning resource centers in all school districts; additional training for teachers on inclusive education; and, the creation of instructional materials fit for Learners with Disabilities.

The educational situation of Learners with Disabilities has been compounded by the challenges posed by the pandemic. They are counting on the Inclusive Education Bill to be able to keep up with the new landscape of education as we gradually move to the new normal. More importantly, the said bill will enable Learners with Disabilities to develop their full potential and gain equal access to opportunities so they will not be left behind in these fast-changing times.

To truly celebrate the essence of the National Children’s Month, we hope that Congress will finalise and expediently pass this important bill. The urgent plight of the vulnerable learners deserve our utmost attention and swift action. Pass the Inclusive Education Bill now! ###

#DignityOfAll