In its continuous thrust to capacitate persons with disability officers and focal persons in Cavite, the provincial government, thru the Office of the Provincial Governor – Office of the Provincial Persons with Disability Affairs Officer headed by PDAO Officer IV Marie Shiela Antenor-Haloc, initiated an Orientation of Disability Programs and Services and Agency Visits at the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) and Resources for the Blind, Inc. (RBI) in Quezon City last April 20, 2023.
The learning visit aimed to familiarize participants with the selected agencies’ programs and services and gain new insights into the delivery of effective programs and services for the disability sector.
The event was joined by almost 50 PWD advocates consisting of some of the members of the Provincial Council on Disability Affairs, headed by 1st District Board Member Romel R. Enriquez, PDAOs, and Persons with Disability focal persons from the different cities and municipalities in Cavite.
The team was warmly welcomed by NCDA Executive Director Joniro F. Fradejas. His message emphasized that individuals with disabilities themselves or social workers are the most suitable candidates to head the disability affairs office, as they possess a deep understanding of the needs and desires of people with special needs.
Mr. Randy Calseña, the Regional Programs Coordinator, discussed the programs and services including the policy formulation and program development coordination framework of the NCDA. Atty. Walter Jason Alava provided updates on disability laws such as RA 7277 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, RA 11228, an Act Providing for the Mandatory PhilHealth Coverage for All PWDs, RA 10747, or the Rare Disease Act of the Philippines, and RA 10754, An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of PWDs.
The highlight of the activity was a tour of the NCDA and Disability Resource and Development Center (DRDC) which was facilitated by Ms. Delfina Baquir and Atty. Walter Jason Alava, Regional Programs Coordinators, where the participants had a glimpse of some of their facilities and offices which include the Information, Education, and Communication Division, Office of the Executive Director, Broadcast Studio Room, Prayer Room, E-Library, and their ramp with breathtaking views that connects from the 7th floor to the ground.
After the visit to NCDA, the group then proceeded to the RBI where they were welcomed by the team headed by Ms. Lily Torrente, RBI Executive Director.
Ms. Lorinda Ang, Resource Development Department Head shared the history of the RBI. Some of the RBI programs and services were also tackled such as the Going Beyond Reading and Nivea Project, Bookshare and E-Library, Higher Education and Employment, Siloam-RBI Mobile Library Demo, and the Eye Care/Low Vision Services.
Ms. Torrente encouraged the attendees to refer individuals with visual impairment to RBI for assistance so that they can support them to achieve their fullest potential in life.
Following the discussion, a tour of the RBI facility commenced which included visits to the Braille production room, low vision center, and Gabay Project area. (PICAD)