NCDA to host Philippine Disability Expo 2025 and 'Firefly' screening

The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), in partnership with the Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), will host the Philippine Disability Expo 2025 from 2 to 4 December 2025 at Megatrade Hall 1 and 2, SM Megamall.

This year’s observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) carries the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.” The Expo supports this theme by providing a collaborative space for persons with disabilities (PWDs), organizations, government agencies, and private sector partners to showcase inclusive innovations and strengthen community engagement.

The three-day Expo will feature:

• Interactive exhibits: 80 exhibitors including PWD-led enterprises, government programs, NGOs, and advocacy groups offering products, services, and initiatives focused on accessibility and inclusion.

• Workshops and learning sessions: Capacity-building activities and skills training aimed at supporting organizations and individuals advocating for PWD inclusion.

• Sharing of experiences: Discussions with disability leaders, advocates, and sectoral partners highlighting stories, gaps, and strategies for inclusive development.

“Through the Philippine Disability Expo, we aim to highlight the capabilities of persons with disabilities and demonstrate how inclusive practices benefit society as a whole,” NCDA spokesperson Atty. Walter Alava said. “This event encourages collaboration between the government, private sector, and community partners to build a more equitable and inclusive society,” he added.

First Filipino film with audio description to be screened

As part of the Expo activities, NCDA — in partnership with the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) and Project ADAM (Audio Description Awareness Movement) — will hold a special screening of Firefly on 3 December 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 n.n. at SM Megamall Cinema.

Firefly is the first Filipino feature film to include audio description, enabling blind and low-vision audiences to fully enjoy the cinematic experience. The screening will be followed by an open forum for advocates, students, media practitioners, and the general public to discuss accessibility in media, inclusive storytelling, and disability representation in the arts.

The Philippine Disability Expo 2025 and the special screening of Firefly form part of the NCDA’s continuing efforts to advance disability inclusion and strengthen the participation of persons with disabilities in social development nationwide.