IC ALL ROSENIANS (INCLUSION COUNCIL FOR ALL ROSENIANS): ASSESSING THE LEVEL OF INCLUSIVITY IN SANTA ROSA CITY AS BASIS FOR AN INTER-AGENCY INCLUSION COUNCIL

Abstract

Several societal goals, such as achieving universal education, expanding gender equality, reducing child mortality, and improving maternal health, depend on inclusion in the society. In this regard, the establishment of an Inclusion Council is one of the objectives stressed in the Executive Legislative Agenda (ELA) of the City of Santa Rosa, which focuses on Inclusive Education. Republic Act No. 11650, An Act Establishing a Policy of Inclusion and Services for Learners with Disabilities (LWDs) in Support of Inclusive Education Act, served as its foundation. This study assessed the level of inclusivity in the different agencies and sectors in the Local Government of Santa Rosa City. In terms of the level of implementation of inclusivity in the identified agencies and sectors - Manpower Development Office, City Youth Development Office, City Culture and Arts Office, City Scholarship Office, City Sports Development Office, and DepEd Santa Rosa City; it was proven that the respondents firmly support the implementation of inclusion in their respective agencies with regard to fostering an inclusive workplace, specifically in creating inclusive environment. With regard to producing inclusive policies, the respondents firmly concur that their respective agencies have rules on inclusion in the workplace. While for evolving inclusive practices, the respondents continue to actively support the development of inclusive practices in their offices or agencies. As a result of this study, it is concluded that Santa Rosa City’s implementation of inclusivity is at a level where the personnel are aware of the concepts of inclusion among their agencies and offices. As recommended, the researchers proved the importance of an inclusion council that will enjoin all related agencies and sectors in the Local Government of Santa Rosa City. This study ensured the inclusivity among all the Rosenian with special needs to secure a future ahead of them by giving them equitable opportunities through an institutionalized Inclusion Council. Thus, it has been made possible and proven effective by assessing the level of inclusivity in the entire city among the different local government agencies and sectors that are expected to work altogether in an Inclusion Council for a more inclusive community.