Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen contributed UN lesson-learned sharing to disaster preparedness training for persons with psychosocial disabilities in southern Thailand, strengthening disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction (DiDRR) through knowledge sharing and partnership building.

A total of 280 participants, including persons with psychosocial disabilities, their family members, volunteers from Southern Thailand and project staff, attended a disaster preparedness training. During the training, APCD shared lessons learned from the United Nations (UN), promoting disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction.

Mr. Watcharapol introduced participants to the DiDRR Matrix (Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction), a practical tool designed to ensure that individuals with psychosocial disabilities and their family members are fully included in disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

Participants explored and presented the DiDRR tools showcased during the session to Strengthen Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction in Southern Thailand.

Participants received rewards for completing the DiDRR exercises.

APCD Contributes UN lesson learn sharing to Disaster Preparedness Training for individuals with psychosocial disabilities in Southern Thailand to strengthening disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction (DiDRR) through knowledge sharing and partnership building

Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) participated as a key resource speaker in the "Disaster Preparedness for Persons with Disabilities and Families in Southern Thailand” in Songkhla, Thailand. the Event is organized by The Association for the Mentally Ill of Thailand (AMITH), Southern areas The three-day workshop (10–12 June 2026) was held at the Thaikaeo Meeting Room, Hadkaew Resort, Songkhla, and brought together 280 participants including representatives of individuals with psychosocial disabilities, their family at regional and provincial levels, association representatives, caregivers, volunteers, and association staff.
Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking and Collaboration, APCD delivered a comprehensive lecture on "The Role and Responsibilities of the United Nations (UN) in Disaster Management in Thailand" on Thursday, 11 June 2026, from 13:00 to 15:00. Drawing from his experience as a former trainee of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), Mr. Watcharapol shared valuable insights on international disaster preparedness frameworks along with the disability inclusion and their application within the Thai context.
The session also introduced participants to the DiDRR Matrix (Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction), a practical tool designed to ensure that persons with psychosocial disabilities are fully included in disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Mr. Watcharapol presented action guidelines on prevention, preparedness, response, and post-disaster rehabilitation specifically tailored for individuals with psychosocial disabilities and their families. The three-day training was supported by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), reflecting the government's commitment to inclusive disaster risk reduction. APCD remains committed to promoting the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities across the Asia-Pacific region through capacity building, knowledge sharing, and network development.

Group Photo starting from second person from the left Ms. Ikeuchi Ami – JOCV; Ms. Ichigi Akari - Representative; Ms. Sato Hiromi - Representative; Ms. Siriwan Wangthamrong; Ms. Komahashi Rie - Senior Representative; Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair); Mr. Thaschai Phattanagosai, Ph.D.; Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul; Mr. Asdang Sukwises; Ms. Wilailekha Somprach; and Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat - Project Officers.

Group Photo starting from second person from back row Ms. Wilailekha Somprach; Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul, General Manager of Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana; Mr. Thaschai Phattanagosai, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President – Corporate Risk, Legal and Sustainability, Centara Hotels & Resorts; Mr. Asdang Sukwises, General Manager of Centara Life Cha-am Beach Resort Hua Hin; Ms. Siriwan Wangthamrong, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, Centara Hotels & Resorts; Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair); Ms. Komahashi Rie - Senior Representative; Ms. Ichigi Akari - Representative; Ms. Sato Hiromi - Representative; Ms. Ikeuchi Ami - JOCV; and trainees sitting in the front.

Trainee in purple T-shirt and Trainee in green T-shirt (left) serving drinks and snacks to Ms. Komahashi Rie - Senior Representative (right).

Two trainees in purple T-shirts (left) and one trainee in yellow T-shirt (right) demonstrating bed making.

Trainee in yellow T-shirt demonstrating floor vacuuming.

Trainee in purple T-shirt arranging drinking glasses.

Tea pot, tea spoons, coffee mug, drinking glasses, water bottles, tea bags, coffee bags arranged in neatly order.

Trainee in green T-shirt (left) and Trainee in purple T-shirt (right) welcoming Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat - Project Officers (center); Ms. Ichigi Akari - Representative (standing behind Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat); and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair behind Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat).

From left Ms. Ikeuchi Ami – JOCV; Ms. Sato Hiromi - Representative; Ms. Ichigi Akari - Representative; and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair) visiting the Kitchen  Department.

Mr. Thaschai Phattanagosai, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President – Corporate Risk, Legal and Sustainability, Centara Hotels & Resorts (standing on the left); Ms. Komahashi Rie - Senior Representative (standing in the center); and Ms. Ichigi Akari - Representative (standing on the right) visitng the Housekeeping Department while trainee in purple T-shirt (sitting in the center) packing coffee bags.

JICA Thailand Visits Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana to Follow Up on APCD’s Disability Internship Program

12 June 2026 – Representatives from JICA Thailand, led by Ms. Komahashi Rie, Senior Representative, together with Ms. Ichigi Akari, Representative; Ms. Sato Hiromi, Representative; Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Project Officer; and Ms. Ikeuchi Ami, JOCV, visited Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana to follow up on the progress of trainees participating in the 6th Vocational Training Program for Persons with Disabilities in Food & Hospitality, implemented by APCD in collaboration with Centara Hotels & Resorts.

The delegation was welcomed by Ms. Siriwan Wangthamrong, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, Centara Hotels & Resorts; Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul, General Manager of Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana; Mr. Asdang Sukwises, General Manager of Centara Life Cha-am Beach Resort Hua Hin; Mr. Thaschai Phattanagosai, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President – Corporate Risk, Legal and Sustainability, Centara Hotels & Resorts; and Ms. Chuleegorn Thongpuak, Sustainability Development Manager, Centara Hotels & Resorts.

During the visit, the JICA Thailand representatives observed trainees with disabilities undertaking internship placements across various hotel departments and gained first-hand insight into their workplace learning experiences, professional skills development, and adaptation to a professional working environment.

The visit highlighted the progress of the trainees and demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration between APCD and Centara Hotels & Resorts in providing persons with disabilities with opportunities to gain practical work experience and develop skills relevant to future employment.

The visit also reflected the shared commitment of APCD, JICA Thailand, and Centara Hotels & Resorts to promoting disability-inclusive employment and expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate fully in the workforce and society.

APCD appreciates the continued support of JICA Thailand and Centara Hotels & Resorts in advancing disability-inclusive development and creating pathways toward meaningful employment and independent living for persons with disabilities.

Group photo of team members from Millennium Hilton Bangkok and Ms. Wilailekha Somprach (first person on the left), Manager of 60+ Plus.

Group photo of team members from Millennium Hilton Bangkok baking the bakeries with persons with disabilities.

Group photo of team members from Millennium Hilton Bangkok rolled doughs with sausages.

Rolled sausage doughs ready to be baked in the oven.

Group photo of team members from Millennium Hilton Bangkok and Ms. Wilailekha Somprach (Second row, first person on the left), Manager of 60+ Plus.

Group photo of team members from Millennium Hilton Bangkok and Ms. Wilailekha Somprach (third person on the right who is sitting and holding a kid), Manager of 60+ Plus.

Team member from Millennium Hilton Bangkok is serving foods for both children in the front.

Team members from Millennium Hilton Bangkok are taking care of the children during the lunch time.

APCD Partners with Millennium Hilton Bangkok for Bakery Workshop and Bread Donation Activity

On 9 June 2026, APCD welcomed team members from Millennium Hilton Bangkok, including Ms. Kasemsri Buathong, Ms. Parichart Phinyaeng, Ms. Sujira Klanpumesri, Ms. Siripen Luxsanasompong, Ms. Sirinart Maksin, Ms. Sutatip Wongchai, Ms. Nongnapat Tachopast, and Mr. Thanespol Chantavilaiying, to participate in a bakery workshop organized under APCD’s 60+ Plus Projects.

The activity provided an opportunity for participants to learn, exchange experiences, and work together in an inclusive and collaborative environment. Through hands-on baking activities, participants gained a greater understanding of the skills, capabilities, and potential of persons with disabilities, while promoting disability inclusion in the workplace and society.

Following the workshop, the freshly baked bread was donated to the Foundation for Slum Child Care, extending support and encouragement to children and families in the community.

The activity reflected the value of collaboration between the private sector and disability-focused organizations in promoting social inclusion and community engagement.

APCD appreciates the participation and support of Millennium Hilton Bangkok and all partners who contributed to the success of this meaningful initiative. APCD remains committed to fostering inclusive opportunities and building a more inclusive society through learning, sharing, and collaboration.
 

A group photo featuring (from left) Asst. Prof. Dr. Manasanan Namsomboon; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sakdipan Tanwimonrat, Vice Dean for Administration; Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD; Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair); Ms. Wilailekha Somprach; Dr. Theeraphong Bualar, Lecturer at Burapha University; and Mr. Somchai Rungsilp.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sakdipan Tanwimonrat, Vice Dean for Administration (left) handing over a blue tote bag with Silpakorn University logo as a souvenir to Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD (right).

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, speaking through a microphone during the meeting.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp speaks through a microphone at the conference table, with Ms. Wilailekha Somprach and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun seated in the background.

Ms. Wilailekha Somprach (right) gives information about 60+ Plus project to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sakdipan Tanwimonrat, Vice Dean for Administration (left).
 

Dr. Theeraphong Bualar, Lecturer at Burapha University (left); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sakdipan Tanwimonrat, Vice Dean for Administration (center); and Asst. Prof. Dr. Manasanan Namsomboon (right) take a look at bakeries.

APCD and Silpakorn University Discuss Collaboration for Inclusive Development of Persons with Disabilities

On 8 June 2026, representatives from the Faculty of Education, Silpakorn University, met with Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, to discuss potential areas of collaboration in promoting the inclusive development of persons with disabilities.

The delegation was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sakdipan Tanwimonrat, Vice Dean for Administration, together with Asst. Prof. Dr. Manasanan Namsomboon, Mrs. Lalita Rujjanawet, Mr. Montree Chutanorm, and Dr. Theeraphong Bualar, Lecturer at Burapha University.

The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives and explore collaborative initiatives that could contribute to the advancement of disability-inclusive development through education, research, capacity building, and community engagement.

The discussion marked an important step toward strengthening cooperation between academia and the disability sector, fostering knowledge exchange, innovation, and inclusive opportunities for persons with disabilities.

APCD appreciates the interest and commitment of the Faculty of Education, Silpakorn University, and looks forward to future collaboration in promoting a more inclusive society for all.

A group photo featuring Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD (far left), and representatives from the Bangkok School for the Blind (center) holding a "Pun Pang, Pun Boon" campaign sign, alongside Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Manager of APCD 60+ Plus Projects (far right), holding a thank-you sign, with boxes of bread stacked in the background.
 

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, talking with representatives from the Bangkok School for the Blind.

Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Manager of APCD 60+ Plus Projects, showing cardboard boxes of freshly baked, individually wrapped breads for donation.

Staff members from the Bangkok School for the Blind (left) and Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD (right) interact closely with a young student in a dining hall, with Ms. Wilailekha Somprach lean in to talk with the child seated across the table.

Ms. Wilailekha Somprach (right) guides a visually impaired female student in a school uniform holding a white cane as she stands by cardboard boxes of fresh bread to receive her donation at the cafeteria table.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, distributes wrapped pieces of bread from donation boxes to students in the cafeteria.

APCD Visits the Bangkok School for the Blind

On 5 June 2026, Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, together with Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Manager of APCD 60+ Plus Projects, visited the Bangkok School for the Blind and shared bread with students and staff.

The bread was provided through the “PunPangPunBoon” Project, which received generous support from donors from Hong Kong. Their contributions helped make this meaningful activity possible and reflected a shared commitment to supporting persons with disabilities and promoting social inclusion.

The visit provided an opportunity to engage with students and school personnel in a warm and welcoming environment. APCD was pleased to spend time with the school community and offer encouragement in support of students’ education and personal development.

APCD appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities and remains committed to promoting inclusion and equal opportunities for all.
 

 A group photo including (from left) Mr. Thapanut Nookuea, Ms. Jiyoung Kim, Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair), and Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD.

Ms. Jiyoung Kim (center) interviews Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD (right), while Mr. Thapanut Nookuea (left) records the interview on a laptop.

Ms. Jiyoung Kim (left) interviews Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD (right).

Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Manager of APCD 60+ Plus Projects (right), provides information about the project to Ms. Jiyoung Kim (left).

Ms. Jiyoung Kim visiting the APCD office.

Mr. Thapanut Nookuea (left) and Ms. Jiyoung Kim (right) inspecting the accessible restroom facilities in the training building.

NHK interviews Executive Director of APCD on Disability Inclusion and Regional Development

APCD was honored to welcome Ms. Jiyoung Kim and Mr. Thapanut Nookuea from NHK, Japan's national public broadcaster, for an interview with Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, on 4 June 2026.

During the interview, Mr. Piroon shared insights into APCD's work in promoting disability-inclusive development, empowering persons with disabilities, and addressing the barriers faced by persons with disabilities.

The interview also highlighted APCD's ongoing efforts to promote the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities and to foster more inclusive societies.

APCD appreciated NHK’s interest in highlighting disability inclusion and raising public awareness of the rights and potential of persons with disabilities.

A group photo of participants included APCD Network Partners, resource person and APCD staff. There were 25 persons attended the activities.

Mr. Thaevan Uthaivath, recourse person shared knowledge and tools to integrate ESG concepts into their work, while also strengthening skills that can be applied in both professional and daily life.

 Attendees completed the pre-session activity on what they expect to learn from the training.

Representative of Dao Ruang Group, the Self-Advocate Group of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities was sharing his perspective.

During the workshop, APCD staff shared and developed ideas on an “e-board,” reflecting key takeaways from the ESG training.

Mr. Narongrit Wattanaiabphan, President of Dao Ruang Group, the Self-Advocate Group of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities, presented products made by the group members.

Ms. Tanutchaporn Kawila, representative from the Dulabhatorn Foundation presented the information and activities of the Dulabhatorn Foundation.

Ms. Apiradee Wanichakorn (right side) and Ms. Kochakorn Samakmit (left side) colleagues from the Foundation for Children with Disabilities presented background, activities and fund-raising products of the foundation.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp concluded the APCD Network Partners Meeting by highlighting the importance of collaboration among partner organizations and thanking the ESG resource person for sharing valuable knowledge to support inclusive and sustainable development.

APCD conducted the Capacity Building Activity on ESG and Network Partners Meeting for Staff of Civil Society Organizations 

On Friday, 29 May 2026, APCD organized Network’s Partners Meeting and Training on “ESG in Practice for Government Organizations (GOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)” at Northgate Hotel, Bangkok. ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance.

APCD Network’s Partners Meeting aimed to strengthen partnerships and enhance collaborative support for the sustainable development and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The meeting brought together key partner organizations, including Dao Ruang Group, the Self-Advocate Group of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities, the Dulabhatorn Foundation (DBF), and the Foundation for Children with Disabilities (FCD). Participants exchanged experiences, discussed future collaboration, and explored ways to promote inclusive and sustainable development for persons with disabilities.

The Session on “ESG in Practice for Government Organizations (GOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)” aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and their practical application in organizational settings.

The session provided participants with knowledge and tools to integrate ESG concepts into the working place, while also strengthening skills that can be applied in both professional and daily life. Participants were encouraged to extend the benefits of ESG practices to their communities and society, contributing to more inclusive and sustainable development. The session was delivered and facilitated by Mr. Thaevan Uthaivath, Chairperson, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Committee, Tata Steel (Thailand) Public Company Limited. Mr. Thaevan was also former expert of APCD on Disability Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) phase 1.

There were totally 25 participants from APCD’s partners and APCD staff members joined these significant activities.

APCD Community Development Manager was interviewed to share the knowledge and experiences about Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR).

The interview was focused on preparedness and protection of persons with disabilities towards disaster.

The Oh I See! program aims to raise awareness of Thai Society by dissemination on understanding of disability, rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the Thailand.

APCD Representative was Interviewed in Social Media Program “Oh I See!” on 12 May 2026, at APCD 

APCD Community Development Manager, Mr. Somchai Rungsilp was interviewed to share the knowledge and experiences about Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR), focusing on preparedness and protection of persons with disabilities towards disaster. The interview session was conducted by the social media program called “Oh I See!”. This program is supported by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS). The program aims to raise awareness of Thai Society by dissemination on understanding of disability as well as rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the Thailand.

Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen facilitated a DET (Disability Equality Training) session, helping participants gain accurate understanding and core knowledge of DIDRR.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp shared participants on DIDRR principles, DIDRR matrix tool and APCD practices, using exercises and gathering participant feedback.

Participants presented disaster preparedness strategies for people who live with physically impaired and hearing impairment using the DIDRR matrix tool.

Participants reflected on key takeaways and how they will apply DIDRR principles in their work.

APCD Resource Persons Strengthened Disability Inclusion in Disaster Risk Reduction Training.

The Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) organized the 7th Training Course on Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion in Disaster Risk Reduction (GEDSI-DRR) from 26–29 May 2026 at the Pullman G Bangkok. 

On 27 May, APCD contributed to the course through two resource persons from Community Development Department (CDD). Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking & Collaboration, led a one-hour Disability Equality Training (DET) session for six participants from various organizations. Through interactive exercises, participants explored terminology around disability, impairment and barriers; analyzed videos; and engaged in self-discovery learning about the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the social model of disability.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Manager of CDD, facilitated a session on DIDRR fundamentals and APCD practices across Thailand, ASEAN and Asia-Pacific. Using the DIDRR matrix tool, participants analyzed how different types of disabilities require specific preparedness, response and recovery approaches to disaster types and process. Participants then presented their findings and shared feedback on sustainable DIDRR strategies. The course equipped policymakers and practitioners with practical tools to mainstream GEDSI into disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation efforts.

A group photo with Rhodes College and APCD, showcasing the souvenirs brought by the visitors.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, APCD Executive Director, welcomed the group with his opening remarks.

Dr. Elin Ovrebo shared Introduction and purpose of visit.

Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking and Collaboration, gave a presentation on APCD’s key activities.

Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol, facilitate the visitor for tour to 60+ Plus Bakery & Café and observed the "Skills Development for Persons with Disabilities" program, including the APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP.

Mr. Watcharapol facilitated a demonstration of Dodgebee, a disability-inclusive sport (DIS).

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit facilitated a team building games calls Samspel. 

Rhodes College study tour enhances learning on Health Equity and Mental Health at APCD.

On 25 May 2026, a group of students and faculty from Rhodes College, USA, visited the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) as part of their study tour in Thailand. This was Rhodes College’s third visit to APCD, following a successful tour by another group the prior year. The delegation was led by Professor Elin Ovrebo and coordinated by Ms. Suleewan Sinsanyanukulas, the liaison from Thailand.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, the Executive Director of APCD, welcomed the group with welcome remarks which were followed by a presentation on APCD’s main activities delivered by Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking and Collaboration. The 13 participants, which included students, faculty, Professor and coordinators, took part in experiential learning activities. They visited the 60+ Plus Bakery & Café and observed the “Skills Development for Persons with Disabilities” program, including the APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP, which assists in vocational training and employment for individuals with disabilities.

The Highlight of the visit is the Disability Inclusive Sport (DIS) Demonstration. This demonstration aims to promote health and social participation of & for persons with disabilities. The visit wrapped up with an engaging Q&A session, during which students inquired about disability-related policies and their implementation in the region. Professor Ovrebo expressed her heartfelt gratitude to APCD for hosting another enlightening and valuable visit.