QUEZON CITY – The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS) underscored the importance of inclusive employment for persons with disabilities (PWDs) as it took part in the Workability Asia (WAsia) Conference 2025 with the theme, “Inclusion at Work: Transforming Perspectives, Creating Opportunities”, held from 22 to 24 September at Novotel Manila Araneta City, Quezon City.

ILS Officer-in-Charge Deputy Executive Director III Miraluna S. Tacadao represented the Institute and joined the panel session, “Towards a More Inclusive Society: Policies, Partnerships, and Participation.” In her presentation, she highlighted the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) programs and services anchored on the pillars of policies, partnerships, and participation for PWDs.

“DOLE programs on livelihood and job facilitation contribute to the partnerships pillar for PWD inclusion by linking government support with the active involvement of employers, training institutions, and communities. These programs not only open pathways to skills development and employment but also strengthen collaboration across sectors to ensure that PWDs are integrated into sustainable economic opportunities,” OIC Deputy Executive Director Tacadao highlighted.

She further emphasized the role of research in strengthening partnerships for inclusion, highlighting how evidence-based insights drive more impactful and sustainable initiatives.

The panel of speakers also included Ms. Glenda De Rama Relova, Executive Director of the National Council on Disability Affairs and Mr. Grant Javier, Executive Director of the Project Inclusion Network.

Hosted by the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies, the Workability Asia Conference 2025 convened service providers, disability organizations, and employers from across Asia to foster collaboration, innovation, and strategies aimed at enhancing employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

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