The Department of Social Welfare and Development Bicol and the Local Government of Ligao signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in an effort to boost and aid the persons with disability sector in the said city.

The MOA was signed yesterday at the Pepperland Hotel by Hon. Mayor Patricia Gonzalez- Alsua , DSWD Officials represented by Social Technology Bureau Director Thelsa Biolena, Regional Director Arnel Garcia and the President of Samahang Nagkakabuklod ng Ligao Inc., Mr. Edgardo Salcedo .

The MOA formalized the cooperation between the Local Government Unit and the DSWD for the Community Action and Resources for Accessible, Better, and Leverage Environment (CARe-ABLE) for Persons with Disability (PWD).

According to Bureau Director Biolena, the CARe-ABLE aims to provide interventions to Persons with Disability and to reduce barriers for greater access to resources both from the government and non-government sector.

The program is also focused on increasing the potentials of PWD and promoting their rights. Social enhancement and capability building activities will be administered for the sector. PWD desks manned by Registered Social Workers will be present within the community while funds will be allocated by the DSWD, she said.

The program will be carried out in five pilot barangays namely; Basag, Tuburan, Pinamaniquian, Maonon and Mahaba.

The chief executive, Mayor Alsua, stated that the city government is set to strengthen PWD capacities and promote its’ active participation. She also added that they are committed to building a well-rounded community for the PWD’s.

“Ligao City is a place full of positivity and a city where good things happen. We will commit ourselves to the success of the project. We are ready to take on this challenge.” she said.

Director Arnel Garcia said that the inevitability of disability will always be present. Nevertheless, they must adjust their sails in order to succeed and reach their destination.

According to him, the level of implementation will be raised throughout the duration of the project.

Ligao City was selected to pilot this project for its active observance and support of the LGU to PWD’s programs and activities.

The CARe-ABLE Project will be piloted in two regions in the country namely Region V and Region IX. ###