In our tech-driven world, where innovation touches every aspect of our lives, the magic lies in its power to make daily living more convenient, enjoyable, and secure. Yet, amid this digital evolution, a substantial portion of the population faces barriers due to disabilities.

Statistics from the Philippines reveal that 1.57% of the population, around 1.44 million individuals, grapple with specific disabilities (Philippines Statistics Authority, 2010). Shockingly, recent findings by UNICEF estimate that 1.6 million Filipino children are living with disabilities (UNICEF, 2022).

Despite technological strides, individuals with disabilities encounter obstacles hindering their access to the advantages of digital tools. Disturbingly, Department of Education data exposes that only 232,975 learners with disabilities were mainstreamed into regular classes during the 2016-2017 school year, a mere fraction of the children estimated by UNICEF in 2022. This stark reality underscores the limited access to education for these children.

The challenges faced by children with disabilities in the Philippines are intricate, woven with threads of poverty, insufficient data, governance gaps, and discriminatory attitudes. These children are often denied education, medical services, and a voice in society. Their vulnerabilities increase, exposing them to physical abuse and discrimination, depriving them of proper nutrition and emergency assistance.

Enter our research initiative, focusing on unraveling the hurdles faced by individuals with disabilities in embracing technology. By delving into this landscape, our study aims to spotlight the intricacies of these challenges, emphasizing the crucial need for tailored solutions that enhance technology accessibility. Our ultimate goal is to champion inclusive technology design, addressing the pressing need for a technologically equitable and accessible environment.