CSWD, LCWDP spearhead observance of NDPR Week

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Local Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (LCWDP) spearheaded the celebration of the 38^th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week with this year’s theme, “Karapatan ng may Kapansanan, Isakatuparan…Now Na!”

Brixxio Daniel, chairman of the Local Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons said PWDs play an important role in promoting their own welfare and creating awareness of their potential in the community. They should be conscious of their own rights and learn to be self-reliant and independent.

“Some PWDs are gifted and talented people and some of them are already successful. They need to be recognized by the government for their achievements and contributions to our country,” Daniel stressed.

Bienvenido Culve, private secretary of Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones said PWDs face discrimination and barriers that restrict them from participating in society on an equal basis.

“The city government thru Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones gives full support to the improvement of the total well-being of PWDs and their integration into mainstream society. They have the same rights as other people,” Culve said quoting the message of the good mayor.

Accordingly, the chief executive ensures that the attainment of a barrier-free environment will be enjoyed by the PWDs by providing them access in public and private buildings, establishments and public utilities.

Other rights, such as the “right to organize” was also granted by the city government where PWDs may form organizations or associations that promote their welfare and advance their interests, as well as provide equal and suitable employment opportunities in the city government.

Social Worker Officer Saramea Ubpon, PWD focal person said about 21 PWDs are  gainfully employed by the city government.

The whole day activity was participated in by Pagadian City Federation of Disabled Persons (PACIFEDEP) officers and members. It turned out to be a very memorable event where they had the opportunity to mingle and associate with one another through games and entertainment.