TACLOBAN CITY (CIO) — Around 200 participants attended the forum on Rights and Benefits of Person with Disability (PWDs) at the Tacloban City Training Center on Friday, July 19.

Spearheaded by the Local Government of Tacloban through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), the forum was held as part of the 41st National Disability Prevention & Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week Celebration.

Maria Lourdes Sabate, PWD Welfare Focal Person said that the event is about the privileges, as well as the programs and services available to the PWDs.

“This is very special because it is their day. This is where they can express it ira mga karuyag sidngon. We have lots of laws for them. Just like the non-PWDs, they are also entitled to their rights. They deserved to be recognized,” said Sabate.

Meantime, representatives from different agencies attended the forum to discuss the programs and services available to the marginalized and vulnerable sectors of society.

Marie Nacino, training specialist of Commission on Human Rights spoke about the human rights and anti-discrimination for the PWDs, while Raul Arma of PhilHealth shared about the Universal Health Care & Special Benefits for PWDs stipulated in RA 11228.

Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Emilia Cruz and Jude Adornado of City Coop Development & Livelihood Assistance Office explained the Employment and Income Generating Venture and Livelihood Opportunities for PWDs.

Also present during the event was Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 8 Focal Person Ben Calzado.

This year’s theme,  “Lokal na Pamahalaan: Kabalikat sa Pagtupad ng Karapatan ng mga Taong May Kapansanan.”- CBM/CIO

Photos: K.E. Napala/CIO