Local officials discussed issues involving Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in time for the celebration of 41st National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week.
SPED Centers in the division joined the nation in celebrating NDPR Week with this year’s theme: Lokal na Pamahalaan : Kabalikat sa Pagtupad ng Karapatan ng mga Taong May Kapansanan.
Programs that will benefit PWD’s are one of the main concerns of the city government and funds were allocated to assist the needs of PWD’s.
“PWDs will have Philhealth for free,” Atty. Mark Anthony Lipar, from Public Attorney’s Office revealed after the passage of RA 11228 signed in February.
The law grants mandatory Philhealth coverage for all Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation said that preparations for the law’s implementation are underway.
Another issue disclosed at the venue was how tricycle drivers do not let PWDs give rides to them due to their disability Hon. Percelito Consigo, the City Communication and Transportation chairperson said.
On the other hand, Mrs. Pureza G. Ambat, City Social Welfare and Development Officer (CSWDO- Cavite City) told the audience the number of PWDs registered in their agency. She also mentioned that there is no enough fund to shoulder the assessment of the students.
Dr. Loida C. Terrado, City Health Officer gave awareness on illnesses in time for the rainy season, on leptospirosis, and on dengvaxia.
“Hindi ko masisisi ang iba kung takot na magpaturok dahil sa nangyari but I still encourage you to be vaccinated against the outbreak,” she added.
In another time, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Bernadette T. Luna expressed her thoughts that PWDs are not liabilities to the society but an asset.
An opening parade around the vicinity of each school followed by the opening program wherein the school heads graciously attended and delivered their messages to the teachers, pupils and parents was the highlight of the first day.
Learners with special needs also showcased their skills during the Festival of Talent while the parents presented their culinary expertise at the Parent’s Cook Off.
The competitiveness of these children was evident during the Family Day where different games were played by the parent-child tandem.
By exploring the different abilities of these children, an Art Lesson was the main activity on the fourth day.
DepEd Cavite City was also well represented during the event – Ms. Leila M. Brosas of Ladislao Diwa Elementary School, Mr. Jose M. Matias of Manuel Roxas Elementary School, Mrs. Bernie Bencito of Sangley Point National High School together with SPED Program Supervisor Mrs. Eliza Zaragoza and Mr. Ednel Almoradie, Education Program Specialist for ESP.
The official date in celebrating NDPR Week was July 17-23 but due to class suspensions it was moved a week after. (Mylene T. Mojica, Editor, DO Express)