The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) urged the government to intensify programs that address the special needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The call was aired as the country observes until Feb. 20 the National Intellectual Disability Week.

The CHR, in its social media post, said that the celebration aims to raise awareness on the challenges faced by individuals belonging to the intellectual disability sector, and what people can do to help them.

"Ang mga indibidwal na may intellectual disability ay nakararanas ng mabagal na pagproseso, pagkatuto, at may limitadong kakayahan sa pakikisalamuha sa iba, (Individuals with intellectual disabilities experience slow processing, learning, and have limited ability to interact with others)," the CHR said.

It pointed out that the government and the public have important roles in creating a safe and caring space for people with intellectual disabilities.

These include strengthening the special education program; providing competent services for their health; and implementing campaigns that will help remove discrimination and stigma against them, it stressed.

"Sa ating pagtutulungan, sikapin nating itaguyod ang inklusibong lipunan na kumakalinga sa karapatan at dignidad ng mga indibidwal na may intellectual disability, (Working together, we strive to promote an inclusive society that protects the rights and dignity of individuals with intellectual disabilities)," it said.