Persons with disabilities have capabilities

This year’s theme, ”Talino at Paninindigan ng Taong May Kapansanan: Pasaporte sa Kaunlaran” aims to promote and advocate the capabilities, talents and skills of PWDs.

In his message read by Mr. Rudy de Mesa, Administrator of the City of Balanga, Governor Abet S. Garcia underscored the difference between the terms “disabled” and “persons with disabilities” (PWDs) and that he is thankful that the term disabled is no longer used nowadays to refer to them. He likewise cited the crucial role played by the family side by side with the government in the prevention and rehabilitation of PWDs and that with ample motivation and support, PWDs can become functional, participative members of the society and lead happy, fulfilled lives. Gov. Garcia is also the Chairman of the Provincial Council on Disability Affairs (PCDA)

Elder Benjamin Notarte and Sister Lucila of the Latter Day Saints (LDS) Charities led in the distribution of 35 standard and roughrider wheel chairs, 7 quad canes, 1 pair of crutches and 1 white cane to pre-assessed beneficiaries from the 11 towns and one component city of the Province.

Mrs. Marilyn Tigas, the Vice- Chairman of the PCDA and the Head of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), said this year’s celebration highlights the artistic skills of PWDs which are featured in contests such as “Outdoor Photography”, “Gat Apolinario Mabini Quiz Bee” and “Lyrics Writing Contest for the Hymn of SATAMAKABA” (Samahan ng Mga Taong May Kapansanan sa Bataan), the provincial association of PWDs.

The following are the winners:

Lyrics Writing        Gat Apolinario Mabini Quiz Bee         Outdoor Photography

1st place – Dennis Garcia         Princess Ann Beltran                          Rodel Diones
                  (Abucay)                   (Pilar)                                        (Mariveles)

2nd place –   Peter Gigante          Rhynne Fuentes                        Ira Margarette Cabulao
                   (Dinalupihan)            (Orani)                                           (Limay)

3rd place – Teodora Ocampo   Liah May de Luna                             Aludia dela Rosa
                      (Pilar)              (Dinalupihan)                                      (Abucay)

Each of them received cash prizes, certificates of participation and trophies for the 1st place winners. Consolation prizes and certificates of participation were likewise given to the other participants.

The municipalities of Mariveles (1st place); Orion (2nd place), and Pilar (3rd place) were adjudged PWD Friendly Municipalities and received plaques of recognition.