QC institutionalizes inclusive hiring program for PWDs

Inclusive Hiring Revolution Quezon City's Paragon Program Empowers PWDs*
PWDs

The world has come to realize the significance of diversity, equity, and in
inclusion, leading institutions to take bold steps towards ensuring equal o
opportunities for individuals with disabilities (PWDs). In a major move tow
towards creating a more inclusive society, Quezon City has institutionalize
institutionalized its Kasama Ka sa Kyusi (KKSK) program for PWDs, reflect
reflecting the city's commitment to empowering this marginalized group.

Breaking Down Barriers

Launched in 2023, KKSK aimed to address long-standing barriers to employmen
employment faced by persons with disabilities. This comprehensive program p
provides a full support system, from skills training and assessment to job 
matching and placement. As of last March, the initiative has provided work 
opportunities to more than 500 beneficiaries.

Institutional Support

The ordinance ensures sustained funding, program support, and institutional
institutional backing for initiatives that help PWDs find meaningful and di
dignified employment. This move not only reinforces the city's commitment t
to ensuring PWDs are not excluded from economic opportunities but also demo
demonstrates a proactive approach to creating an inclusive environment.

Exceeding Requirements

Quezon City has exceeded the minimum requirement of employing at least 1 pe
percent of positions in government agencies, offices, and corporations rese
reserved for persons with disabilities (Republic Act 10524). The city now e
employs 731 PWDs, representing 3.12 percent of its total workforce of 23,44
23,440 employees.

Pathway to Independence

For many beneficiaries, the program has become more than just an employment
employment initiative – it has become a pathway toward independence, stabil
stability, and renewed confidence. As Mayor Joy Belmonte noted, Applicants
Applicants under the program undergo interviews and job assessments conduc
conducted by QC-PDAO. Qualified applicants are then matched with positions 
in city departments or partner companies based on their skills and capaciti
capacities.

A Paragon of Inclusive Hiring

Quezon City's KKSK program sets a paragon for inclusive hiring practices, d
demonstrating that institutions can make a meaningful impact when they prio
prioritize diversity and inclusion. By institutionalizing this program, the
the city has taken a significant step towards creating an environment where
where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.

Conclusion

The importance of QC's inclusive hiring program cannot be overstated. As we
we move forward in 2026 and beyond, it is crucial that institutions continu
continue to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. By doing so, we ca
can create a more just and equitable society for all – regardless of abilit
ability or disability.

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Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.