Persons with disabilities given more access
PWDs who represent different organizations pose
during the 29th National Rehabilitation Prevention
and Rehabilitation Week, which opened last
July 17, 2007 at SM City Iloilo.
Kathy Villalon photos
No excuses. No limits. This rings true because human beings are born with the capacity to make a difference despite imperfections.
It is with this premise that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are given more access to opportunities just like anyone else.
This importance placed on the welfare of PWDs was given a boost with the holding of the 29th National Rehabilitation Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR Week) from July 17 to 23, 2007. It carries the theme, "Kapag May Access May Success."
One of the activities is an exhibit in front of Toy Kingdom in SM City Iloilo. There, several government agencies and organizations are exhibiting their efforts in improving the lives of PWDs.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Iloilo Provincial Federation of Differently Abled Persons Inc exhibited their efforts of organizing PWDs, distribution of assistive devices, skills training, livelihood project, advocacy and sports.
Tulay (Tulong, Alalay sa Taong May Kapansanan) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) exhibits their training on candy making, baking, handicrafts and meat processing.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), on the other hand, provides trainings to day car workers in the implementation of project Tuloy Aral Walang Sagabal for PWDs, access to Unlad Kabataan Program, provision of assistive devices and technical assistance to self-help groups like PWD organizations and Women with Disabilities Federation.
Meanwhile, the Association of Disabled Persons Inc Multi Purpose Cooperative (ADPIMPC) exhibits their livelihood training on simplified non-circulating hydroponics and refrigeration and airconditioning maintenance; Jaro Plaza canteen, linkages with various government agencies and private sector, TESDA-ADPIMPC training and production center, making of prosthesis, special chairs, tablet armchairs, manipulative toys, crutches and wheelchairs. They also organize strengthening programs like financial management and cooperative management and leadership. Their hydropnically-grown lettuce are being exhibited, too.
On July 22, 10 am, there will be a sportsfest dubbed "Larong Pinoy" while on July 23, 2 pm, there will be a musical presentation in SM City Events Centre.