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Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
TWENTIETH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ______ 
Introduced by Representatives Alfelito “Alfel” M. Bascug, Ysabel Maria J. Zamora and          
Laarni Lavin Roque 
“AN ACT 
REDEFINING THE FUNCTION OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY 
AFFAIRS, REORGANIZING ITS STRUCTURE, PROVIDING FOR ITS FUNDING, 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES” 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippine Constitution guarantees the fundamental rights of every individual, 
including the right to equality, non-discrimination, and full participation in society. Consistent 
with these principles, the State has enacted Republic Act No. 7277, or the “Magna Carta for 
Persons with Disabilities,” as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, and has ratified the United 
Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), affirming its 
commitment to a rights-based approach to disability. Despite these legal frameworks, however, 
persons with disabilities in the country continue to face systemic barriers in accessing 
education, employment, healthcare, infrastructure, public services, and legal protection. While 
institutional mechanisms exist, such as the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), 
they remain limited in mandate, resources, and enforcement authority. 
This proposed measure seeks to redefine the function, structure, and authority of the 
NCDA by converting it into the National Authority for Disability Rights and Welfare 
(NADRW), a strengthened and reorganized institution attached directly to the Office of the 
President. This transformation is not merely a change in nomenclature but a necessary 
evolution to meet the growing and complex demands of disability-inclusive governance. The 
NADRW shall serve as the primary government agency mandated to formulate, coordinate, 
and monitor all national policies and programs concerning the rights and welfare of persons 
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1:16 pm
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with disabilities, ensuring their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with 
others. 
The bill envisions a holistic and empowered institution, equipped with quasi-judicial 
authority to investigate complaints, enforce compliance with disability laws and standards, and 
recommend appropriate legal actions. Through its Subcommittee on Justice, the NADRW shall 
address cases involving vilification, bullying, and denial of benefits and privileges granted to 
PWDs. This mechanism addresses the long-standing challenge of weak enforcement and 
limited access to remedies for PWDs whose rights have been violated. 
Further, the measure ensures meaningful participation and representation of the 
disability community in the formulation of national policy by establishing a multi-agency 
Governing Board. This Board, composed of key Cabinet Secretaries, representatives from 
organizations of persons with disabilities, and other relevant stakeholders, shall function as the 
highest policy-making body of the Authority. The measure also establishes a robust 
organizational structure with specialized bureaus responsible for program development, 
technical cooperation, accessibility standards, information management, capacity building, and 
regulatory enforcement. It provides for the creation of Regional Disability Authority 
Coordinators to ensure effective implementation at the local level, foster collaboration with 
local government units, and bring services closer to the grassroots. 
To ensure sustainability, the proposed Act mandates regular appropriations through the 
annual General Appropriations Act and authorizes the NADRW to receive and manage local 
and foreign donations, grants, and endowments, which shall be allocated exclusively for 
disability-related programs and projects. The Authority is likewise tasked with standardizing 
the issuance of the Persons with Disability Identification Card and maintaining a 
comprehensive database of all disability-related programs and services, thereby ensuring 
efficiency, transparency, and data-driven policymaking. 
The proposed creation of the NADRW is a bold step toward institutional reform that 
centers the rights, dignity, and empowerment of persons with disabilities. It reflects the State’s 
recognition that disability is not merely a medical or welfare issue, but a matter of human rights 
and social justice. It is a recognition that achieving genuine inclusion requires not only 
legislative intent but also a strong, accountable, and capacitated institution that can translate 
policies into real, measurable outcomes. 
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought. 
REP. ALFELITO “ALFEL” M. BASCUG 
REP. YSABEL MARIA J. ZAMORA 
      Agusan Del Sur, First (1st) District 
         San Juan City, Lone District 
REP. LAARNI LAVIN ROQUE 
Bukidnon, Fourth (4th) District 


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Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Batasan Hills, Quezon City 
TWENTIETH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ________ 
Introduced by Representatives Alfelito “Alfel” M. Bascug, Ysabel Maria J. Zamora and          
Laarni Lavin Roque 
“AN ACT 
REDEFINING THE FUNCTION OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY 
AFFAIRS, REORGANIZING ITS STRUCTURE, PROVIDING FOR ITS FUNDING, 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES” 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
ARTICLE I 
GENERAL PROVISIONS 
SECTION 1. Short Title. This Act shall be known as the "National Authority for 
Disability Rights and Welfare Act." 
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared the policy of the State to uphold 
and protect the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in accordance with the principles 
enshrined in the Constitution, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with 
Disabilities (UNCRPD), and Republic Act No. 7277, otherwise known as the "Magna Carta 
for Persons with Disabilities," as amended by Republic Act No. 9442. The State recognizes 
that persons with disabilities are an integral part of society and shall ensure their full and equal 
enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms without discrimination of any kind 
on the basis of disability. Towards this end, the State shall strengthen the institutional 
framework for disability-inclusive development, ensure effective implementation of disability 
laws, promote accessibility, foster an inclusive environment, and provide avenues for redress 
against violations of their rights and privileges. 
SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. For purposes of this Act, the following terms shall mean: 
a. Persons with Disabilities – refer to those who have long-term physical,
mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various
barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal
basis with others.
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b. National Authority for Disability Rights and Welfare (NADRW) – refers 
to the primary government agency mandated to formulate, coordinate, and 
monitor policies and programs concerning PWDs.  
c. Accessibility Audit – refers to a systematic process of evaluating the built 
environment, transportation systems, and information and communication 
technologies to identify barriers that hinder access and participation of PWDs.  
d. Built Environment – refers to all man-made structures, facilities, and spaces, 
including buildings, roads, sidewalks, parks, and public spaces.  
e. Transportation – refers to all modes of public and private transport, 
including vehicles, terminals, and infrastructure.  
f. Accreditation – refers to the formal recognition by the NADRW that an 
organization of PWDs meets specified standards of quality, capacity, and 
effectiveness.  
g. Quasi-Judicial Function – refers to the power of the NADRW, through its 
designated subcommittee, to hear and decide disputes, investigate complaints, 
and impose administrative sanctions concerning violations of disability laws 
and rights.  
h. Vilification – refers to the act of speaking or writing about PWDs in an 
abusively disparaging manner, or the act of defaming or slandering PWDs. 
ARTICLE II 
CREATION AND MANDATE OF THE NATIONAL AUTHORITY FOR 
DISABILITY RIGHTS AND WELFARE 
SEC. 4. Renaming and Placement. The National Council on Disability Affairs 
(NCDA), created under Executive Order No. 709, s. 1981, as amended, and further 
strengthened by Executive Order No. 33, s. 1986, is hereby renamed as the National Authority 
for Disability Rights and Welfare (NADRW). The NADRW shall be an attached agency 
directly under the Office of the President. 
SEC.  5. Powers and Functions. The NADRW shall exercise the following powers and 
functions:  
a. Formulate, coordinate, and monitor the implementation of national plans, 
policies, and programs for the promotion and protection of the rights and 
welfare of persons with disabilities, consistent with the UNCRPD and RA 7277, 
as amended;  
b. Serve as the central coordinating body for all disability-related programs and 
services of national government agencies, local government units, and non-
government organizations;  


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c. Conduct, or cause to be conducted, regular Accessibility Audits of public and 
private establishments, facilities, and services to ensure compliance with 
accessibility standards;  
d. Develop, issue, and enforce national standards on built environment and 
transportation to ensure universal design and accessibility for persons with 
disabilities, in coordination with relevant government agencies such as the 
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of 
Transportation (DOTr), and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban 
Development (DHSUD);  
e. Accredit organizations of persons with disabilities to ensure their legitimacy, 
capacity, and adherence to ethical standards in advocating for and serving the 
disability sector;  
f. Provide technical assistance and capacity building to national and local 
government agencies, private entities, and organizations of persons with 
disabilities on disability-inclusive policies and programs;  
g. Conduct research and studies on disability issues, collect and maintain a 
comprehensive database on persons with disabilities, and disseminate 
information to promote public awareness and understanding of disability;  
h. Advocate for the inclusion of disability perspectives in all development plans, 
policies, and programs of the government;  
i. Recommend legislative and policy measures to further protect and promote 
the rights and welfare of PWDs.  
j. Perform such other functions as may be necessary to achieve the objectives of 
this Act; 
k. Standardize the design and issuance of the Identification Cards of Persons 
with Disabilities in Partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGUs); and 
l. Establish a database for all information related to disability programs and 
services. 
SEC. 6. Quasi-Judicial Function. The NADRW, through its Governing Board's 
Subcommittee on Justice, shall have the quasi-judicial function to investigate, hear, and decide 
on complaints pertaining to: 
a. Non-compliance with disability laws, rules, and regulations;  
b. Acts of vilification against persons with disabilities;  
c. Acts of bullying against persons with disabilities; and  
d. Non-recognition or denial of rights and privileges granted to persons with 
disabilities under existing laws. The Subcommittee on Justice shall have the 


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power to issue cease and desist orders, impose administrative fines, and 
recommend appropriate legal action to relevant government agencies. The rules 
of procedure for the exercise of this quasi-judicial function shall be promulgated 
by the Governing Board within ninety (90) days from the effectivity of this Act. 
ARTICLE III 
GOVERNING BOARD 
SEC. 7. Composition of the Governing Board. The NADRW shall be governed by a 
Board, hereinafter referred to as the "Governing Board," which shall be composed of the 
following:  
a. The Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development 
(DSWD) as Chairperson;  
b. The Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH) as Vice-Chairperson;  
c. The Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd);  
d. The Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE);  
e. The Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH);  
f. The Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr);  
g. The Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government 
(DILG);  
h. The Secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ);  
i. The Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban 
Development (DHSUD);  
j. The Director-General of the National Economic and Development Authority 
(NEDA);  
k. The Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED);  
l. A representative from the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), 
representing the Persons with Disabilities Sector;  
m. Three (3) representatives from legitimate organizations of persons with 
disabilities, to be appointed by the President from a list of nominees submitted 
by the recognized organizations  of persons with disabilities; and  
n. The Executive Director of the NADRW, who shall serve as an ex-officio 
member and Board Secretary.  


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The representatives from organizations of PWDs shall serve for a term of three (3) years 
and can be on a hold over capacity until their replacement has been appointed. 
SEC.  8. Powers and Functions of the Governing Board. The Governing Board 
shall be the policy-making body of the NADRW and shall have the following powers 
and functions:  
a. Formulate and approve the overall policies, plans, and programs of the 
NADRW;  
b. Oversee the implementation of disability laws and programs; 
c. Create subcommittees as may be necessary, including the Subcommittee on 
Justice, to effectively carry out its functions;  
e. Promulgate rules and regulations necessary for the effective implementation 
of this Act;  
f. Exercise such other powers as may be necessary to achieve the objectives of 
this Act; 
SEC. 9. Subcommittee on Justice. The Governing Board shall constitute a permanent 
Subcommittee on Justice, which shall be composed of members of the Governing Board with 
legal expertise, representatives from the Department of Justice, and legal experts from persons 
with disabilities organizations. This subcommittee shall be responsible for the exercise of the 
quasi-judicial functions of the NADRW as provided in Section 6 of this Act. 
ARTICLE IV 
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE AND STAFFING 
SEC. 10. Executive Director. The NADRW shall be headed by an Executive Director, 
who shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines with the rank of an Undersecretary. 
The Executive Director shall serve for a fixed term of six (6) years and can stay on a hold over 
capacity until a replacement has been appointed. The Executive Director shall be the chief 
executive officer of the NADRW and shall be responsible for the day-to-day operations and 
implementation of the policies and programs approved by the Governing Body. 
SEC.  11. Deputy Executive Directors. The Executive Director shall be assisted by two 
(2) Deputy Executive Directors, both with the rank of Assistant Secretary, who shall be 
appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the Executive Director.  
a. Deputy Executive Director for Operations – shall oversee the 
implementation of all programs, projects, and services of the NADRW, 
ensuring their effective and efficient delivery to persons with disabilities.  
b. Deputy Executive Director for Administration – shall be responsible for 
the overall administrative and financial management of the NADRW, including 
human resources, procurement, and general services. 


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SEC. 12. Bureaus. The NADRW shall be organized into the following Bureaus to 
effectively carry out its functions: 
A. Under the Deputy Executive Director for Operations: 
 
1. Programs and Innovation – Responsible for the development and monitoring of 
disability-inclusive programs and projects, and for fostering innovative 
solutions to address the needs of persons with disabilities; 
 
2. Technical Cooperation – Responsible for forging and maintaining partnerships 
with international organizations, foreign governments, and local stakeholders 
for technical assistance and resource mobilization; 
 
3. Support to Operations – Provides direct support services to persons with 
disabilities and their organizations, including referral services, case 
management, and advocacy support; 
 
4. Capacity Building and Training – Develops and implements training programs 
for persons with disabilities their families, caregivers, and service providers, as 
well as for government agencies and private entities on disability awareness and 
inclusion; 
 
5. Standards and Regulatory – Responsible for developing, disseminating, and 
enforcing standards on accessibility, universal design, and the accreditation of 
persons with disabilities organizations. This Bureau shall oversee Accessibility 
Audits; and 
 
6. Information and Communication – Manages the NADRW's information 
systems, public relations, communication strategies, and the comprehensive 
database on PWDs. 
 
B. Under the Deputy Executive Director for Administration: 
 
1. Administration and General Services – Handles general administrative 
functions, property management, records management, and logistical support; 
 
2. Finance – Responsible for budget preparation, financial management, 
accounting, and disbursement of funds; 
 
3. Human Resources and Development – Manages personnel matters, including 
recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and employee welfare; and 
 
4. Procurement – Handles all procurement activities of the NADRW in accordance 
with existing laws and regulations; 
SEC. 13. Regional Disability Authority Coordinators. There shall be a Regional 
Disability Authority Coordinator in each administrative region of the Philippines, who shall be 
responsible for coordinating and overseeing the implementation of NADRW programs and 
policies at the regional and local levels. The Regional Coordinators shall establish strong 


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linkages with local government units, regional line agencies, and PWD organizations to ensure 
effective outreach and service delivery. 
ARTICLE V 
APPROPRIATIONS AND FUNDING 
SEC.  14. Appropriations. The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act 
shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
SEC.  15. Special Fund. The NADRW is authorized to accept donations, grants, and 
endowments from local and foreign sources, which shall constitute a special fund to be used 
exclusively for disability-related programs and projects, subject to existing government 
accounting and auditing rules and regulations. 
ARTICLE VI 
TRANSITORY PROVISIONS 
SEC.  16. Implementing Rules and Regulations. The Governing Board, in consultation 
with relevant stakeholders, shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the 
effective implementation of this Act within ninety (90) days from its effectivity. 
SEC.  17. Transitory Provisions. All personnel, assets, liabilities, and records of the 
National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) shall be transferred to the National Authority 
for Disability Rights and Welfare (NADRW). The existing personnel of NCDA shall be 
absorbed by the NADRW in accordance with Republic Act (RA) No. 6656 or An Act to 
Protect the Security of Tenure of Civil Service Officers and Employees in the 
Implementation of Government Reorganization and its Implementing Rules and 
Regulations. 
SEC.  18. Repealing Clause. Executive Order No. 709, s. 1981, Executive Order No. 
33, s. 1986, and all other laws, decrees, executive orders, proclamations, rules, and regulations 
or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended, or 
modified accordingly. 
SEC.  19. Separability Clause. If any provision of this Act is declared unconstitutional 
or invalid, the remainder of this Act or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain in full 
force and effect. 
SEC.  20. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete 
publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,