The Cebu Provincial Government is planning to establish a physiotherapy and rehabilitation center for persons with disabilities (PWDs) at the Provincial Capitol, which could become the first facility of its kind directly operated by a provincial government in the area.
Gov. Pamela Baricuatro announced the proposal during the province’s PWD Month celebration, saying the planned facility would bring rehabilitation and therapy services closer to PWDs.
The center will be housed inside the Capitol’s Wellness Center, which is currently undergoing renovation. The facility is also expected to accommodate the Provincial Disability Affairs Division (PDAD).
The proposed rehabilitation center is intended to provide PWDs with easier access to therapy and other support services while creating a centralized government facility where they can seek assistance.
Baricuatro said the provincial government’s efforts for the PWD sector should continue beyond the month-long observance.
The announcement came as the province gathered PWD representatives and government offices for the celebration themed, “Rights First, Legislation Forward – Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development.”
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office organized the event, which also featured health and wellness services from the Provincial Health Office.
PWD participants received medical consultations, blood sugar testing, and uric acid and cholesterol screening. Organizers also distributed reading glasses and multivitamins.
The provincial government is also strengthening the role of the PDAD in coordinating programs and services for the PWD sector.
Board Member Dason Lorenz Lagon, chairperson of the Provincial Board Committee on Differently-Abled Persons, presented the renewed direction of the PDAD, saying the office should serve as a direct link between PWDs and government services.
He said the office would advocate for accessible programs in education, employment, healthcare and livelihood while helping ensure that laws protecting PWDs are implemented at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, Dr. Jera Armendarez, area vocational rehabilitation center training superintendent of the Department of Social Welfare and Development 7, discussed disability awareness and rehabilitation services available through the agency’s Non-Residential Facility for PWDs.
The event also included the oath-taking of the newly elected officers of the PWD Federation. Outgoing officers were likewise recognized for their service.
Comments