BONTOC, Mountain Province – The municipal government through the Municipal Disability Affairs Office (MDAO) continuously strengthens its support to the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the locality by upholding their welfare and interest and giving them equal opportunities and backing in the mainstream of society.
In celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPRW) from July 17-23, 2024, Municipal Disability Affairs Officer Maria Codeo shared the initiatives being undertaken by the municipal government and partner stakeholders that cater to the needs of the PWDs.
Codeo shared that for this year, among the lined-up activities is the rehabilitation outing at Mainit Hot Spring for the 16 PWD organizations in the municipality. She explained that the outing offers the PWDs a rejuvenating experience leveraging the therapeutic benefits of hot springs, known to improve blood circulation, alleviate pain, and provide relaxation. Thus, this activity aims to provide physical and psychological benefits to the PWDs while fostering a sense of community inclusivity.
Also, the MDAO collaborated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for a Cash-for-Work Program that benefitted 200 PWDs. Aside from this, 185 PWDs from the five ELCAC barangays received financial assistance.
On awareness and education, the said office partnered with other stakeholders for the provision of skills training and entrepreneurship opportunities. Among these is the Balili Farmers Organization which ventures in producing banana-based products. She added that their office is working with other stakeholders including government entities and private organizations to enhance livelihood opportunities and agricultural support for PWDs.
On Case Management, PWDs received essential medicines and assistive devices through the collaborative efforts of the municipal government and the concerned national government agencies.
Codeo further relayed that the municipal government has allocated PhP344,000 for medicines, trainings, and technical assistance to support the 16 PWD organizations in the municipality.
“As we celebrate the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, let us reaffirm our dedication to building a community where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully. Together, let us continue to promote inclusion, celebrate abilities, and ensure access for all,” Codeo emphasized.
Per record from the MDAO, Bontoc has a total of 1,094 PWDs. These include individuals with physical disabilities, hearing impairments, learning, mental, visual, speech, and intellectual challenges, and other conditions such as cancer and rare diseases. By Alpine L. Killa-Malwagay
