DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — Persons with disabilities from across the province gathered at Viewpoint Hotel on July 31, 2026, to celebrate ability, creativity, and inclusion. The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) hosted the culminating event of the 48th National Disability Rights Week with a vibrant talent showcase that put rights and participation at the center.
A Celebration of Rights and Talents
The activity was anchored on the theme “Rights first, legislation forward – strategic action for equal participation and inclusive development.” PSWD Officer Geraldine Lano led the event under the administration of Governor Yvonne Roña Cagas and Vice Governor Marc Cagas. Delegates from the province’s nine municipalities and one city came together to prove that disability does not limit artistic expression.
The competitions were designed to let participants shine in multiple disciplines. The Doble Kara contest tested vocal impersonation skills, while the vocal solo event showcased raw singing talent. Interpretative dance and poster‑making contests allowed participants to express deeper messages through movement and art.
Winners Across Competitions
In the Doble Kara category, the municipality of Hagonoy claimed the top prize, followed by Matanao and Kiblawan. The vocal solo competition saw Padada take home the gold, with Malalag and Sulop securing second and third places respectively. Each winner was met with applause that filled the hotel venue.
The interpretative dance event was divided into two categories. In the SNEd (Special Needs Education) category, the City of Digos delivered the winning performance, while Padada and Sta. Cruz placed second and third. The inclusive category crowned Padada as champion, with Matanao earning the silver.
The poster‑making contest revealed powerful visual messages. In the adult category, Malalag won first place, followed by Hagonoy and Sta. Cruz. The children’s category saw Padada on top, with Hagonoy and Digos City completing the winners’ circle. Each artwork captured the spirit of the celebration.
A Province‑Wide Gathering of Inclusion
Beyond the competitions, the event served as a platform for social connection and community recognition. Persons with disabilities, their families, and local officials shared meals, conversations, and laughter. The gathering reinforced the message that inclusion is not just a policy but a lived experience that enriches the entire province.
The celebration was held in accordance with Proclamation No. 597, series of 2024, which renamed the observance from Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week to National Disability Rights Week. The shift emphasizes a rights‑based approach that values participation over mere charity. Davao del Sur’s event proved that when given the stage, persons with disabilities deliver extraordinary performances.
Championing a Rights‑Based Future
The provincial government remains committed to creating more opportunities for persons with disabilities. Governor Cagas and Vice Governor Cagas have supported programs that promote equal access to education, employment, and social services. The success of this talent showcase serves as a testament to what can be achieved when barriers are removed.
