ILOILO – The provincial government recognized the contributions of persons with disabilities (PWDs) during the 45th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week celebration.
On Monday, July 17, the NDPR Week opened at the capitol lobby with the theme “Persons with Disabilities Accessible and Rights: Towards a Sustainable Future Where No One is Left Behind.”
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the opening program with Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO)-PWD focal person Ann Rapunzel Ganzon.
“We are adjusting our infrastructure, we are adjusting our facilities, and we are adjusting our lives. We want (PWDs) to live a normal life, and the first thing we should do is treat them normally,” Defensor said.
Meanwhile, Ganzon said the event reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment and equality.
“We celebrate the remarkable contributions of persons with disabilities to our society and recognize the importance of creating an environment where everyone can thrive without barriers,” Ganzon said.
The PSWDO also recognized four PWD capitol employees for their service to the provincial government.
“Together, let us envision a future where no one is left behind, where opportunities abound for all, and where the potential of every person is recognized and nurtured. By working hand in hand, we can build a sustainable future that echoes with the harmonious chorus of inclusivity,” Ganzon added.
Moreover, the PSWDO distributed wheelchairs and assistive devices donated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
The distribution was graced by Elder Emelito Reymund Orencia.
The recipients were from the municipalities of Mina (five wheelchairs), Calinog (two wheelchairs), Pavia (four wheelchairs, one pair of crutches), Bingawan (four wheelchairs), San Enrique (one blind cane), and Santa Barbara (one blind cane).
A pledge of commitment recognizing the accessibility requirements of persons with disabilities was also signed.
As part of the celebration, a one-stop shop for concerned government agencies was made available at the capitol lobby to make services accessible to PWDs.
The participating agencies included the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Interior and Local Government, and Iloilo Police Provincial Office.
The Public Employment Service Office also conducted job recruitment activities and counseling. (With a report from Capitol News)/PN
