Local government units (LGUs) across the country are stepping up their efforts to create inclusive programs for people with disabilities (PWDs), with a focus on recognizing and celebrating their abilities and contributions to society.
During the recent DILG sa DZRH Breaktime broadcast on Wednesday, Carmona City, Cavite, highlighted its long-standing commitment to supporting PWDs. The city has been a recipient of the Apolinario Mabini Award since 2008, an accolade presented annually from July 17 to 23 under Presidential Proclamation 957.
Carmona City Mayor Dr. Dahlia Loyola shared details about their program "Kaliyakap," which has been in place for nearly 20 years. The program offers a range of specialized services to approximately 390 students with diverse disabilities for the upcoming school year. These services include early intervention, behavioral modification, adaptive skills training, and bridging programs to support students through their educational journey, from early schooling to college.
For those who may not benefit from traditional education, the program provides alternative opportunities such as livelihood and entrepreneurship training and work placement programs in various industries. These efforts aim to equip individuals with the skills and opportunities necessary for a successful and fulfilling life.
"Mayroon din kaming community-based program na kung saan tinatalakay din ang pagtulong sa kanilang health, employement, livelihood at kung ano ano pa na pwedeng ibigay ng ating city government and stakeholders. And sa ngayon ng ginagawa yung aming building para sa shelter program para doon sa mga naabandonang mga PWDs na wala nang mag-aalagang mga kamag-anak," Loyola said.
Loyola emphasized that the Shelter Program, which started with 20 learners from the Alternative Learning System, has since expanded significantly, employing SPED teachers and additional staff trained by national agencies. This program has had a profound impact, helping PWDs progress and showcase their talents.
"Inaanyayahan namin kayo nagpeprepare kami for a big concert this coming december in the first concert everybody was crying, why? Could you imagine, this autistic children na nadiagnose ng maaga, dati hindi matigil sa isang lugar ngayon nasa stage nagsasayaw, kumakanta," said Mayor Loyola.
The effectiveness of Carmona City's program has garnered international recognition, including awards in Malaysia and this year's Global Inclusion Award at UNESCO in Paris, France.
"Talagang gagastos ka pero naniniwala ako na lahat ng LGU ay mayroong pera para diyan. Hindi kami sumunod thru the years doon sa 1 percent of the budget na 50% senior and 50% disability," the Mayor noted.
"Ang aming panuntunan, if you have the means, gumawa ka ng plans and programs para sa kanila, para no body is left behind," she furthered.
Similarly, the City Government of Makati, represented by Barangay San Lorenzo Captain Jose Emmanuel Recto, shared their inspiring initiatives for PWDs. Makati’s programs focus on business integration and providing information campaigns about PWD rights and accessibility for employment.
Recto said that their programs focuses more on business as they gave information campaign in light with the rights of PWDs particularly their accesibility for employement.
"Nagbibigay kami ng mga information campaign sa lahat ng mga establishments tapos nag-ooffer rin kami ng mga job fairs job fairs targeted to PWDs to give them an opportunity to be able to work and be productive members of society," said Mayor Recto.
Barangay San Lorenzo has also introduced new programs to support PWDs during emergencies, such as natural disasters. These initiatives aim to address the unique needs of PWDs in situations like typhoons and earthquakes, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance during rescue operations.
"Mayroon ding kaming mga programs na nakacater sa mga persons with disabilities lalo na ngayon sa time ng mga bagyo, earthquakes, pag nagrerescue ka ng mga tao, iba yung mga may kapansanan, kailangan nila ng soecial treatment or assisted by rescue teams"
He also highlighted the fully funded PWD NGO sponsored by Barangay San Lorenzo, which supports local and neighboring areas with financial and material assistance for PWD concerns.
Recto also highlighted the collaborative efforts with other government agencies to implement these projects. "Mostly and closely ay ang Local City Government sa kanila kami humihingi ng tulong o alalay talaga."
San Lorenzo's robust funding has also enabled the barangay to extend its support to neighboring areas, providing financial and material assistance to address PWD concerns across the region.
Through these comprehensive efforts, Barangay San Lorenzo aims to create a more inclusive and responsive environment for PWDs, ensuring their safety and well-being both during emergencies and in everyday life.
"Sana bigyan niyo sila ng mas madaming opportunity yung pwds makakaytulong rin naman sila at they are part of the society," Recto concluded.
