Dipolog celebrates 20th autism consciousness
week
By Mary May A. Abellon
DIPOLOG
CITY, Jan. 25 (PIA) – The city government here through its City Social Welfare
and Development Office (CSWDO) has joined the nation in a weeklong celebration
of the 20th Autism Consciousness Week with a theme, “Onwards to an Austism- OK Philippines” starting
Jan. 17-23.
The celebration started with a motorcade along the city
main streets followed by an opening program at the school gymnasium of Dipolog
Pilot Demonstration School (DPDS) and Special Education (SPED) with children
from the SPED Center and the Center for Children with Special Needs of CSWDO as
participants.
This weeklong activity primarily aims to intensify
awareness on the rights of persons with autism in the country. It advocates for
their integration into the mainstream of society geared towards their
empowerment.
“The city government has provided medical services
through free check-up to children with special needs,” Mayor Evelyn T. Uy said
during the opening program.
The lady mayor stressed that these children are not
different from other kids who needed love and care from their families, adding “autism
is not a word to be feared but a child to be loved.”
Academic competition, family day, sporty angels,
field trip, angel’s walk, autizumba and family outing also highlight the said
celebration.
