The 48th National Disability Rights Week Celebration was successfully held yesterday, July 17, 2026, at Balay Cadiznon, anchored on this year's theme: “Rights First, Legislation Forward: Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development.”

The celebration began with a caravan, followed by the welcome address of Mr. Al James Madrid, PDAO Focal Person, and an invocation led by Ps. Carlo Mendoza. Messages of support and inspiration were delivered by former City Councilor Hon. Frances Guanzon and City Councilors Hon. Winona Balagosa (Chairperson, Committee on PWD), Hon. Maricel Desuyo (Chairperson, Committee on Health), Hon. Claire Therese Consing, and Hon. Kathrina Kaye Gustilo-Balbin, reaffirming the City Government's commitment to promoting the rights, welfare, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the 2nd Inclusive Chair Dance Contest, where eight barangays showcased inspiring performances that celebrated talent, unity, and inclusivity. The event also featured an exciting raffle draw organized by the United Persons with Disability Association.

Chair Dance Contest Winners
• Champion: Barangay Magsaysay
• 1st Runner-up: Barangay Cabahug
• 2nd Runner-up: Barangay Daga

Consolation Awardees: Blind Association, Barangay Banquerohan, Barangay Tinampaan, Barangay Zone 1, and Barangay Caduha-an.

The celebration highlighted the importance of building a community where everyone is valued, empowered, and given equal opportunities to participate and succeed, reaffirming Cadiz City's commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible future for all.

The Committee on Budget, Finance and Appropriations conducted a committee meeting today, July 16, 2026, at the Office of the City Vice Mayor to discuss the proposed Revised Investment Code of 2024 of the City of Cadiz, Negros Island Region.

The meeting was attended by City Vice Mayor Hon. John Vincent Escalante; City Councilors Hon. Marlon Metoda, Hon. Maricel Desuyo, Hon. Fria Cristine Cervantes-Napiza (Chairperson, Committee on Budget, Finance and Appropriations), Hon. Kathrina Kaye Gustilo-Balbin, Hon. Lalen Lamis, Hon. Paulene Decolongon, and Hon. Winona Balagosa; and former City Councilor Hon. Frances Guanzon.

Also present were OIC-City Treasurer Ms. Marites Rosano, SP Secretary Mr. Rafael Bedrejo, and Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Officer Ms. Lyn Regodos, who provided technical inputs during the discussion.

The committee meeting forms part of the City's continuing efforts to strengthen its investment policies, enhance the ease of doing business, and create a more competitive and investor-friendly environment that supports sustainable economic growth and development in Cadiz City.