CEBU, Philippines — Gov. Pamela Baricuatro on Thursday announced plans to establish what could become the first provincial government-run Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) during the Provincial PWD Month Celebration.
The proposed rehabilitation center will be housed inside the Provincial Capitol’s Wellness Center, which is currently undergoing renovation. It will also serve as home of the Provincial Disability Affairs Division (PDAD).
With the theme, “Rights First, Legislation Forward – Strategic Action for Equal Participation and Inclusive Development,” the celebration was organized by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) to reaffirm the provincial government’s commitment to promoting the rights, welfare, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
As part of the celebration, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) provided free health and wellness services, including medical consultations, blood sugar testing, uric acid and cholesterol screening, as well as the distribution of reading glasses and multivitamins to participating PWDs.
In her message, Gov. Baricuatro emphasized that advancing the welfare of persons with disabilities should remain a year-round commitment.
“As we gather for this closing celebration, I don’t see this as the end of the PWD Month. I believe this is just the beginning. Because promoting the rights, welfare, and inclusion of people with disabilities is not a one-month responsibility. It is something we must uphold every single day,” the governor said.
She also administered the oath of office to the newly elected officers of the PWD Federation. Outgoing federation officers were recognized for their service and dedication through the awarding of Plaques of Appreciation.
Board Member Dason Lorenz Lagon, Chairman of the Committee on Differently-Abled Persons, presented the orientation on the Provincial Disability Affairs Division (PDAD), highlighting its renewed direction of providing stronger coordination and more responsive services for the PWD community.
“Our office will not simply be an administrative office; it will become a place where PWDs are heard and respected—a bridge connecting the PWD community to government services and opportunities, an advocate for accessible programs in education, employment, healthcare, and livelihood, and a partner in ensuring that laws protecting persons with disabilities are fully implemented and felt at the grassroots level,” Lagon said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Jera Armendarez, Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center Training Superintendent of DSWD-7, discussed disability awareness and the services offered through the agency’s Non-Residential Facility for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
Also present was Chief of Staff Ricci Reluya, representing Board Member Lakambini Reluya, Chairperson of the Committee on Women, Family, and Minors.
