DAVAO CITY — The observance of the 37th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week this year brings on the advocacy on health and wellness concerns for PWDs nationwide on July 17-23.
In the region, various government agencies and non-government organizations catering to PWDs have lined up several activities centered on PWDs health awareness to be staged in different areas in the city.
Since the focus in the NDPR observance is on health, the Department of Health (DOH-XI) has prepared advocacy endeavors such as cultural show, product exhibit, medical check ups and forums on various health related topics.
The forums will tackle specifically on Executive Order No. 417 or the mandate to implement the economic independence program for PWDs, responsible parenthood skills, health and wellness and lectures on basic sign language.
Dr. Sharon Valdez, chief of DOH-XI Non-Communicable Diseases division, said their activities would also include counseling on smoking and tobacco regulation.
Valdez urged the PWDs in the region to participate in the activities and avail of the services offered during the weeklong celebration.
Other featured event would be the first Search for Outstanding PWDs initiated by the Davao-based non-government organization Behind the Rolling Chairs in partnership with the Support the Employment and Livelihood of People with Disability.
Naprey Almario of Behind the Rolling Chairs said the Mindanao-wide search aims to acknowledge PWD leaders and advocates with outstanding works in their chosen fields and serve as role models to other PWDs and their communities.
Almario said there are eight nominees coming from different places like Davao City, Cotabato City, Davao Oriental and Bukidnon, who are vying for the search.
The awarding rites will be held in the afternoon of July 17 at SM City Annex, Ecoland, Davao City.
Davao City’s magician and multi-awarded chess player James Infiesto, who is also president of the Association of Differently-Abled Persons in the city, urged the public to celebrate with the PWDs during the NDPR week.
Meanwhile, the DOH-XI also emphasizes on major undertakings for PWDs such as mental health program, lifestyleelated programs, blindness screening program, assistive devices assistance and counseling for PWDs and senior citizens. (PIA-XI)
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