Recognizing the special needs of the physically challenged sector of hilippine society, Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario promised to help persons with disabilities (PWDs) secure a partylist seat in Congress in the next elections.
“Hopefully, I shall be able to help you secure a partylist seat in the House of Representatives in the next elections,” the governor said, to the delight of PWDs, stakeholders and advocates.
Speaking during culmination of the 32nd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week on Friday at the Molave Hotel in Tagum City , Del Rosario said the handicapped have needs that should be addressed through congressional representation.
He said handicapped individuals should receive fair treatment and equal social opportunities, and they must be protected from widespread discrimination.
Two partylist groups who represent the interest of PWDs joined in the last elections.
Unfortunately, votes were not enough to give them a seat in Congress, to be able to represent the nine-million strong sector of Filipinos with disabilities.
Both the Asahan Mo (Advocates for Special Children and Handicapped Movement) and Damayan Alliance of the Aging & Disabled Filipinos, Inc. failed to muster enough votes.
On the other hand, the Disabled Pinoy Party (DPP), which also sought to represent PWDs sector was denied accreditation by the Comelec.
Also during the NDPR week culmination, ADAP President Redendo Martinez asked his fellow PWDs to stop brooding about their handicap and start thinking about what they can contribute in order to help build a better society.
Gov. Del Rosario further promised the PWDs will not be left out as his new administration resolves to pursue in the next three years his three development cornerstones, namely: human development, people empowerment, and public-private partnership.
He pledged the provincial government shall not only provide PWDs access to facilities and establishments, but also access to opportunities to develop their skills and most especially, opportunities to quality education.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Arlene Semblante, who is the concurrent Provincial Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (PCWDP) Action Officer said the provincial government is particularly concerned with the plight of PWDs.
Semblante said PWDs have found work at the Capitol. The province also grants scholarships and livelihood projects to them.
She added the activities lined up during the week-long NDPR celebration were meant to show that PWDs have their own skills and potentials which can be useful if only given the chance.
