The Commission on Higher Education Regional Office I (CHED RO1) conducted its fifth information session of 2026 with the virtual seminar “From Access to Success: Building Inclusive Campuses for Learners with Disabilities and Special Needs Webinar,” on July 21, 2026, via Zoom, drawing over 300 participants across Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Ilocos Region.

The webinar highlighted the importance of advancing inclusive and accessible higher education through policy discussions, institutional best practices, and innovative approaches to supporting learners with disabilities and special needs.

Through this initiative, CHED RO1 reaffirmed its commitment to fostering equitable, accessible, and inclusive learning environments across the region, empowering higher education institutions to ensure that every learner has the opportunity to succeed regardless of ability.

The webinar was concurrent with 48th National Disability Rights Week 2026, which runs from July 17-23, 2026.

It was graced by Ms. Ymmalu Margarette C. Esparagoza, Planning Officer II, Programs Management Division Representative of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Dr. Marilyn L. Balmeo, Faculty, School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts of Saint Louis University, and Mr. Tyrone O. Gil, Jr., a doctorate student from the University of the Philippines – Diliman.

Dr. Precious Lyn Babida and Dr. Marifel Acena of the University of Northern Philippines also presented in the webinar, alongside Dean Marian Patricia Bea U. Francisco and Mr. Jeremiah So Adriano of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, and Mr. Dennis Millare, and Dr. Rogelio Quiroga of the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College.

“Malaki talaga ang parte ng HEIs pagdating sa pagsulong ng disability inclusion,” said Ms. Esparagoza. “HEIs are at a unique position to increase the supply of [special education teachers].”

“HEIs should be able to reach out to these persons with disabilities and if they are able to accept such learners, the admission process should be inclusive and responsive to them,” said Mr. Gil. “Interventions should also be targeted in terms of the programs they’re choosing. I recommend all HEIs should have a focal person to take charge in inclusive education.”

“Inclusion is giving such students with conditions equal opportunities to learn and we do that by providing reasonable accommodations,” said Mr. Adriano.

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