SANTA MARCELA, Apayao – Around 50 participants from this town benefited from the 2-in-1 seminar on Early Detection, Prevention, and Intervention of Disabilities (EDPID) organized by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) at the Walai Resort and Convention Center on August 22 and 23 and was attended by personnel from the municipal and the barangay governments.
According to the PSWDO data, the province currently hosts a total of 1,991 individuals with disabilities, with orthopedic disabilities representing the most prevalent category. These orthopedic disabilities can stem from either congenital or acquired causes, with vehicular accidents being a significant contributing factor. These accidents not only result in orthopedic disabilities but can also lead to other forms of disabilities or even fatalities.
One of the primary responsibilities of the PSWDO is to raise public awareness regarding activities aimed at detecting, preventing, and intervening in existing disabilities among the yApayaos.
With the EDPID’s overarching goal of reducing the incidence of orthopedic disabilities through information and education, this program likewise seeks to enhance understanding regarding the long-term care and management of family members with chronic conditions.
Furthermore, the seminar includes the midyear meeting of the Provincial Federation of Persons with Disabilities-Apayao (PFPWD), which is vital for planning the upcoming 2023 National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week.
On the second day of the event, a key highlight was the induction of the newly elected PFPWD officers of the province presided over by Hon. Emiliano Galleon, the Committee Chairman on Social Services of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
This initiative will extend to other municipalities in the province, continuing its efforts to promote disability awareness and prevention. By Michelle O. Acantilado
