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The United Nations in the Philippines and partners have kicked off UN Month 2026 with the ceremonial illumination of the SM Mall of Asia Globe. The symbolic lighting marks the start of the month-long commemoration of the founding of the organization and –  this year – shines the spotlight on disability inclusion, as part of the United Nations commitment to leave no one behind. With the theme “UNlimited Together,” UN Month 2026 highlights the rights, leadership, and contributions of persons with disabilities and builds momentum towards the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in December. The Philippines was the first ASEAN country to ratify the Convention in 2008, underscoring its longstanding commitment to advancing disability rights and inclusion. This year's celebration emphasizes that inclusive societies benefit everyone. The promise of a better future for all, embodied in the Sustainable Development Goals, becomes more achievable when the needs of persons with disabilities are addressed and their contributions recognized. By working together, it is possible to remove the physical, social, and systemic barriers that prevent millions of people, with and without disabilities, from participating fully in economic, social, and civic life. “An inclusive Philippines is a stronger Philippines. Leaving no one behind starts by ensuring that every person, including persons with disabilities, can participate fully and equally in society,” said Arnaud Peral, United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines. “UN Month 2026 showcases how disability inclusion is not only a human rights imperative but also essential to achieving sustainable development for all.” Throughout October, the United Nations, government partners, organizations of persons with disabilities, civil society, academia, and the private sector will come together for a series of events and campaigns designed to amplify voices, increase awareness, encourage action, and strengthen partnerships for inclusion. Key activities include the UN Philippines Accessibility Challenge, the "Voices of Inclusion" digital campaign, and the Inclusive Futures Forum, the flagship event scheduled for 23 October. The celebration will elevate the visibility of persons with disabilities as leaders, innovators, and agents of change while promoting accessibility, universal design, and inclusive policies across society. It will also demonstrate how synergies among UN entities and partners across Government, the private sector, the academe and civil society are advancing disability inclusion through their development, humanitarian, peacebuilding, and human rights work.