Abstract
This dissertation, titled “Workforce Inclusion Framework to Enhance the Employability of Persons with Low Vision in the Philippines,” examined the barriers, support systems, and inclusive strategies necessary to improve employment opportunities and long-term workforce participation among persons with low vision. Anchored on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the study aimed to develop a holistic and evidence-based workforce inclusion framework that could guide disability-inclusive employment policies, vocational rehabilitation programs, and workforce development initiatives in the Philippine context. The study utilized a convergent parallel mixed methods design grounded in the pragmatic research paradigm. Purposive sampling was employed involving individuals with low vision who were employed or actively seeking employment, together with employers, rehabilitation professionals, and government representatives engaged in disability employment and rehabilitation services. Quantitative data were gathered using structured survey questionnaires and analyzed using weighted mean and standard deviation, while qualitative data from interviews and focus group discussions were analyzed through thematic analysis. Quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated through triangulation to generate a comprehensive understanding of workforce inclusion among persons with low vision. Findings revealed that existing training programs and rehabilitation services positively contributed to employment readiness and skills development among persons with low vision. Respondents emphasized the importance of specialized training, individualized coaching, workplace accessibility, assistive technology integration, psychosocial support, and inclusive hiring practices. However, persistent barriers such as inaccessible workplaces, fragmented rehabilitation systems, stigma and discrimination, limited access to assistive technologies, and inadequate implementation of disability-inclusive policies continue to hinder sustainable employment and career advancement. The study identified six major domains necessary for workforce inclusion and developed a Workforce Inclusion Framework integrating employability assessment, competency-based training, assistive technology and accessibility, employer engagement, psychosocial support, and policy alignment. The study concluded that sustainable workforce inclusion for persons with low vision requires a coordinated, multi-sectoral, and systems-oriented approach strengthened through collaborative institutional partnerships and disability-inclusive employment policies.
Keywords: Low vision, workforce inclusion, employability, disability inclusion, vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology, psychosocial support, employer readiness, sustainable development goals, Philippines