Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI)  was among the national government agencies (NGAs) non-government organizations (NGOs), and disabled people’s organizations (DPOs), which participated in the Writeshop on Development of Manual on Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, organized by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) , from June 20- 21, 2013, at Bayview Park Hotel, Roxas Boulevard corner United Nations Avenue, Manila.

The objective of the writeshop was to bring together relevant stakeholders to come out with a manual on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) that would include disability concerns. The training manual is primarily intended for rescue workers on how to assist persons with disabilities (PWDs) and for field workers and community volunteers working at different local government units (LGUs) and NGOs involved in disability.

The manual aims to build key stakeholders’ capacities to mainstream disability inclusion in DRRM. PWDs are often overlooked and excluded  in disaster situations.

One of the legal basis for the writeshop was Article 11 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), of which the country is one of the signatories, which declares that ,”States Parties shall take, in accordance with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, all necessary measures to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk, including situations of armed conflict, humanitarian emergencies and the occurrence of natural disasters.”

The writeshop focused on the rights-based approach in addressing the specific needs of PWDs during disasters.The manual recognizes that the term “people with disabilities” covers a broad spectrum of human experience and individual circumstances.

NCDA Deputy Executive Director Mateo A. Lee Jr. welcomed the participants to the writeshop .Randy Calseña, NCDA Planning Officer II, acted as moderator and facilitator.

LCDPFI was represented by  Richard Cepeda, its Finance Officer and  Dave Tabaniag, its Communication Officer.

eonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) – Economic Empowerment (EE)program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project was among the exhibitors from the government, private sector and people’s organizations,  during the information and communications technology (ICT) job fair for persons with disabilities (PWDs), which was held June 19, 2013 at the Cyberzone, SM North EDSA Annex, in Quezon City.

It’s the second year in a row that the job fair dubbed “ICT: Enabling People, an ICT Job and Skills Fair for PWDs,” was organized by the Department of Science and Technology -Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ISTO), in partnership with the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Centrex, and SM Supermalls.

116 PWD job applicants (most of whom are Deaf) registered at the LCDPFI booth to request for  assistance in finding gainful employment.

LCDPFI maintains a Livelihood Resources Center (LRC) which is being supported by Leonard Cheshire Disability (LCD)-UK with funding from Accenture, where PWDs register, undergo assessment and trainings, are referred and assisted to either self-employment or wage-earning jobs.

Eight (8) LRC clients applied  during the job fair.

The activity was held in celebration of  the National Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Month this June, with the theme of Inclusive ICT for a Smarter Philippines.

Most of the  jobs that were available were involved with  IT business process outsourcing, such as  programming and systems design, to ICT enabled creative industries such as animation, desktop publishing and web design.

The Economic Empowerment (EE) program of Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI), through its “Access to Livelihoods” project funded by Accenture, conducted “Foundation Skills Training- cum Enterpreneurship and Personality Development” training for Boholanos with disabilities, April 30, 2013.

Participants of the training were 100 PWDs who work as musicians, masseurs and beauticians in Tagbilaran City and in the province of Bohol. They were appreciative to be involved in the activity as they recognized its importance in their work and personal lives. Aside from the free seminar, they also received livelihood kits to supplement their income generating activities.

Held at the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) Conference Hall in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, the training was made possible in partnership with the provincial government and the Bohol Federation of Disabled Persons, Inc. (BFDPI).

A cordial welcome message kicked off the activity delivered by BFPDI President and PDAO Focal Person Mateo Quilas, who is also the Governor for Region VII of Katipunan ng may Kapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI), a national federation of people with disabilities (PWDs).

PWD advocate, Eric Cañada rendered a special song number which inspired the guests and participants.

Inspirational messages were given by LCDPFI Founding Chairperson Lourdes L. Reyes; who emphasized the support and opportunity given by Leonard Cheshire Disability – UK, she urged the PWD participants to be self reliant and determined in sustaining their employment for themselves and families.

Executive Assistant of Bohol Governor Edgar M. Chatto, Mr. Glen Doloritos extended his support to the event and even raised the possibility of building a partnership between the provincial government and LCDPFI after the election.

The Chief of the Public Attorney’s Office of Tagbilaran City,  Atty. Godfrey T. Tubo expressed his whole-hearted support for the PWDs who aspire to improve their economic status by developing their marketable skills for sustainable employment instead of relying on charities.

After the messages, a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between LCDPFI and BFDPI was witness by the participants and guests.

Programs Manager Hazel Joy D. Borja oriented the participants about LCDPFI and how it works with partners and stakeholders to empower PWDs economically by providing enhancement kits, “make-over”, and support such as trainings, massage tools, cosmetology kits, calling cards, cellphone loading, streamers, among others that improve their existing livelihoods. Further, she explained the benefits of entrepreneurship and how LCDPFI trains PWDs to develop their life and work skills so that they could work in    the mainstream economy.

Basic personality development tips essential for future entrepreneurs were given by EE Project Officer Marie Fe Cimafranca.

A member of LCDPFI’s Board of Trustees, Siegfredo R. Restubog, who is also an Auditor by profession, discussed the importance of Financial Management, importance of SSS and Phil Health.

Ms. Loudes Reyes, Mr. Siegfredo Restubog and Mr. Mateo Quilas distributed the livelihood kits to the participants.

Closing remarks were given by Carlo V. Malicse, BFDPI Vice-President, who expressed their heartfelt thanks to LCDPFI and partners. He assured that their organization will do its best to become a good partner in proving the monitoring and reporting of livelihood of the recipients.

After the training, together with Ms. Reyes, Mr. Restubog, Mr. Quilas and LCDPFI and BFDPI staff visited the OIC – Provincial Social Welfare Officer, Ms. Carmelita Tecson and Governor Edgar Chatto.

Governor Chatto, graciously welcomed the team in his home and instantly expressed his support to the initiative of LCDPFI and to institutionalize a provincial agreement after the elections.

The purpose of the visit was to initially coordinate for possibilities of provincial partnership and collaboration for future initiatives for PWDs. This is also a social preparation for the future expansion of the Access to Livelihoods initiatives.

The following day, the musicians in the airport were seen wearing the uniform provided by LCDPFI. The guests were pleased to see them in warm red shirts as they sing melodious Filipino love songs. Likewise, masseurs also wore the uniforms provided for them.

The training and coordination in Tagbilaran Bohol was indeed a success. Monitoring and sustainability of their livelihood activities will be expected for the coming months.

Twelve (12) people with disabilities participated in the third day of the  four-day “English for Success” Basic Communication Skills Training held at the Livelihood Resources Center (LRC) last June 22, 2013. They were basically the same group which had completed the first two days of the training, but with the inclusion of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI)- Economic Empowerment (EE)program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project, and in partnership with Accenture Philippines, had organized  the training  for PWD job applicants.  Four (4) training sessions would be held  for consecutive Saturdays, from  starting  from June 8  to 29.

Accenture staff Elinore Lim and Kristopher Manalo  facilitated  the third  day of training.

As part of their ongoing staff development, Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) staff underwent training in Basic Microsoft Access applications last June 19, 2013, at theLivelihood Resources Center, in Project 4, Quezon City . Microsoft Access, also known as Microsoft Office Access, is a database management system which is considered by many as an effective substitute for Microsoft  Excel especially in storing larger quantity of data. Its features make it simpler and faster to store, organize, and retrieve data by enabling its users to create tables, forms, and reports.

The staff development training intends not only to develop and improve  individual staff competencies and capabilities, but to promote organization development so that LCDPFI could more effectively fulfill its goals of advancing the human rights of people with disabilities and empowering PWDs.

The staff development training was made possible in partnership with Accenture Philippines. The Basic Microsoft Access Training was conducted by Donalyn C. Martin, Accenture Senior Software Engineer.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) – Economic Empowerment (EE)program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project funded by Accenture, conducted an  Employers’ Forum and Job Fair for PWDs, at the  14th Floor Quezon City Hall Main Building. The activity were in partnership  with VISIONARIES (Vision - Impaired and Striving Individuals Optimizing Normalcy Aiming for Resiliency, Independence Empowerment and Spirituality), an advocacy group that aims to empower and uplift persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The theme of the said forum-cum-jobs fair was “Let’s All Have F.R.E.E.D.O.M. (Full Respect for Equality, Economic Independence, and Dignity Onwards to Meaningful Employment)”.

It aimed to empower employers and PWDs about the right of PWDs to equal opportunities in employment.

Aldrin Cuña, Chief of Staff of the City Mayor Herbert M. Bautista, delivered the welcome remarks.

Inspirational messages were given by LCDPFI Chairperson Lourdes L. Reyes and VISIONARIES, Inc. President Raymond B. Reyes.

For her part, LCDPFI Program Manager Hazel Joy D. Borja  oriented the participants about LCDPFI and how it works with partners and stakeholders to empower PWDs economically by  facilitating gainful employment of PWDs through formal employment or livelihood activities. She also discussed the importance of “Building an Inclusive Workplace.”

Lauro Purcil, Lead Convenor of the Philippine Coalition on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), briefly explained  Article 27  (“Work and Employment”) of theUN CRPD. It is the first international treaty which recognizes PWDs not merely as objects of charity and  passive recipients of welfare but have the same rights as everyone else.

Meanwhile, Mercy B. Apurado of the Depatrment of Labor Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) shared DOLE’s initiatives in promoting equal opportunities for PWDs, and Miguel Antonio P. Limon, National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Information Officer IV talked about the benefits and advantages of hiring PWDs.

Irene S.  Matias,  Genashtim Senior Quality Assurance Analyst and Gerald G. Gallardo, CIFRA International  VP for Operations and Sales and Rotary Club of Mandaluyong President, expressed the employer’s perspective in hiring PWDs.

Eleven (11) employers, namely National Book Store, IHG Call Center, Intercontinental Manila, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn-Galeria, Holiday Inn- Makati, Holiday Inn- Clark, Genahtim, CIFRA Industrial Services Corporation, Sitel, and Bench participated in the activity together with sixty-five (65) PWD job applicants.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI)- Economic Empowerment (EE)program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project, and in partnership with Accenture Philippines, had organized a Resume Writing and Job Interview Workshop which was participated in by  PWD job applicants, last June 29, 2013 at the Livelihoods Resource Center (LRC) in Project 4, Quezon City.

The training was conducted by Accenture’s Corporate Citizenship Coordinator Emerson Enriquez. It aimed to prepare the employable but presently unemployed PWDs in writing effective resumes and in planning how to deal with job interviews.

Among the topics which were discussed during the training were the essential parts of a resume, the five (5) commandments of resume writing, job interview tips, and common interview questions.

After the training, there was a realistic simulated mock interview  intended to assist the PWD job applicants in practicing for an actual job interview.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) – Economic Empowerment (EE)program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project is organizing a PWD Product Conference on July 18, 2013 at the Quezon City Memorial Circle Multipurpose Hall near Philcoa Gate in Quezon City, from 9:00 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening. The said activity is part of the 35th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR) Week Celebration.

The activity aims to provide persons with disabilities (PWDs) the opportunity to showcase their products, demonstrate their craftsmanship and ingenuity and find possible market for these products. Consistent with the rights-based approach to disability, it also intends to highlight PWDs’ talents and create public awareness about disability.

LCDPFI is the co-chair with the Department of Justice (DOJ) of this year’s NDPR week celebration, which has as its theme, “Building an Inclusive and Non-Handicapping Environment for Persons with Disabilities.”

The “Access to Livelihoods” is a three-year global cooperation project between Leonard Cheshire Disability, a U.K. – based NGO and LCDPFI with funding support from Accenture Global Foundation.

Young Voices- Philippines members, led by Rocky Macaspac, its National Facilitator and Helen Mae Noble, YV Project Assistant, participated in the Young Voices East Asia Regional Meeting at Kristal Hotel, Jakarta, Indonesia, last June 25-2013.  There were also participants from  Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea.

The purpose of the the Regional Meeting which had as its theme,“The Time for Action is Now”, was to provide an opportunity for the Young Voices groups from the East Asia to interact at a Rewgional level, share their experiences of campaigning and of their successses, challenges and lessons learnt.

It is hoped that after the said Regional Meeting, the groups will have the opportunity to build their campaigning skills.

The welcome remarks were made by Leonard Cheshire Disability (LCD) – East Asia and Pacific Regional Programme Manager Barkha Henry who also introduced the participants. The keynote address was given by Perry Elliot,  Chairman of Yayasan Wisma Cheshire Home, which is located in  Cilandak, South Jakarta, Indonesia.

LCD- U.K. International Policy and Campaigns Officer Thomas Palmer gave the delegates a brief background on Young Voices and the Regional Meeting.

After which, the participants from each of the participating countries shared their experiences in advocacy efforts they have done so far.

Among the topics discussed during the three-day meeting were using theory of change for planning campaigns and identifying impact, monitoring the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD).

YV is a global campaign network which brings together youth with disabilities (YWDs) between ages 16-25. The YWDs are trained on the UNCRPD and other local legislation’s to be able to lobby for implementation of the UNCRPD.

YV is a project of the Leonard Cheshire Disability Global Alliance. In the Philippines, YV is one of the core programs of Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI), along with Inclusive Education (IE) and Economic Empowerment (EE). It is being funded by the European Union.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) – Economic Empowerment (EE) program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project funded by Accenture, conducted a Foundation Skills Training cum Enterpreneurship and Personality Development Training for aspiring PWD entrepreneurs, last June 21, 2013, at the Archdiocese of Manila Office forPersons with Disabilities Ministries (AMO-PDM), Caritas Manila Compound, in Pandacan, Manila.

AMO- PDM is a ministry under the Ministry of Social Services of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. The office envisions PWDs uphold their dignity as active, productive, self-reliant, and fulfilled members of the community.

EE Project Officer Marie Fe Cimafranca gave the participants a brief background about LCDPFI and  its program on employment and livelihood.  She also discussed the benefits of enterpreneurship.  EE Project Assistant Bella Albuera provided participants with effective personality development tips.

After the training, seventeen (17) PWDs were provided with livelihood enhancement kits, mostly e-loading and sari-sari (variety) store items.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI)-Inclusive Education (IE) program through its “Access to Education” project funded by US Agency for International Development (USAID), conducted a Training of Trainers on Inclusive Education which was held last  July 6 to 8, 2013 at Bayview Park Hotel, Roxas Boulevard corner United Nations Avenue, Manila.

Twenty- eight (28) public elementary school teachers coming from various partner schools in project areas participated in the three (3)-day training.

The welcome remarks were delivered by LCDPFI Founding Chairperson Lourdes L. Reyes, and the inspirational message was given by LCDPFI President Atty. Jack Racela IV.

For his part, IE Project Officer Eduardo Lorenzo gave the project briefing. Lorenzo’s counterpart in Mindanao, Gloria Navarro facilitated the introduction and leveling of expectations of participants.

Parent Advocate on Disability and Rehabilitation Randy Calseña discussed disability from a development perspective. He explained the definition, types, and characteristics of various disabilities, together with relevant international and national disability laws, and etiquette of communicating with persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Also among the guest speakers were Department of Education (DepEd) Senior SpEd Specialists Chit Singayan and Nancy Pascual. Singayan gave an overview of Inclusive Education, including key concepts relating to principles of Inclusive Education., while Pascual talked about classroom management and behavior management.

Programs Manager Hazel Joy Borja discussed the rationale for setting up an inclusive school and classroom, and the curriculum adaptation and modification to make education more accessible for all students, especially those with disabilities.

During the second day of training, Advocata President Prof. Rosario Maria S. Villasor explained the skills and techniques to be an effective trainer, including understanding the training process, requirements, qualities, and roles of a trainer, and training methods.

After the lecture-discussions, the participants were divided into two groups for a roll out training- planning workshop, which was followed by the presentation of  plans by the respective teachers’ groups, and an open forum about the topics which have been discussed.

On the third day of training, the participants underwent a study tour.  They visited thePhilippine School for the Deaf (PSD), P. Villanueva Elem. School, and Philippine National School for the Blind (PNSB), which are all located in Pasay City near Bayview.

Economic Empowerment (EE) Project Officer Maf Cimafranca and Placement Coordinator Arianne Pearl Hugo participated in the  ICT for Filipino MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises) Training of Trainers (ToT), organized by Go Negosyo in partnership with the ASEAN Foundation and Microsoft. The training was held at RFM Auditorium G/F RFM Corporate Center, Sheridan cor. Pioneer Sts. Mandaluyong City last  July 1 to 2, 2013.

Participants were mostly entrepreneurs, trainers, coordinators of livelihoods and cooperatives both from the private and public sector convened to learn more about Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).

The purpose of the ToT is to demonstrate to the future trainers on how to deliver this curriculum to micro entrepreneurs so they can improve the success of their businesses using technology. Furthermore, it also aims to help communities extend the reach of this curriculum across the region.

The participants were selected on the basis of their experience in, and strong understanding of micro entrepreneurs, and background and understanding of business concepts and applications (including marketing, finance, business management, and business communications).

ICT for Filipino MSMEs aims for the development and delivery of ICT curriculum tailored for the needs of micro-entrepreneurs, to help them understand how they can use technology most effectively to sustain and grow their businesses. The curriculum is designed using the perspective of the entrepreneur – it highlights business challenges that entrepreneurs face and how technology solutions could address those challenges.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) – Economic Empowerment (EE) program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project funded by Accenture, seeks to enable persons with disabilities (PWDs) to overcome the barriers they face and achieve economic independence.  LCDPFI’s EE component has three main strands, namely: capacity building, wage employment, and business development.

The EE program is a rights-based approach which supports PWDs to find gainful and meaningful employment, or start their own business through various services such as career counseling, job information, referral and/or placement, skills training, and working with employers to educate and to challenge discriminatory attitudes.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI)-Economic Empowerment (EE) program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project funded byAccenture, conducted a Disability Sensitivity Training for Holiday Inn- Crowne Plaza Hotel employees, last July 9, 2013, in Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City. The training was conducted in two (2) batches. Managers, department heads, officers and staff actively participated; wherein first batch was comprised of thirty-one (31) participants and with fifty-three (53) participants for the second batch. 

The participants consisted of bell captains, housekeeping supervisors and staff, receptionists, Food and Beverage (F & B) staff, butlers, room attendants, and supervisors and trainees of the Human Resources (HR) Department.

The objectives of the training were to raise the staff’s disability awareness and sensitivity, particularly in dealing with persons with disabilities (PWDs), as clients or as colleagues in the workplace. Topics covered in the training included basic disability facts, relevant disability laws, barriers and accessibility and how to build an inclusive work environment.

After the training, the hotel employees shared that it helped to raise their awareness ands increase their understanding of the rights and capabilities of PWDs.

These included Odette Samson, who said that she realized that persons with disabilities (PWDs) should be guided and oriented in their respective work areas in order for them to become productive or efficient employees. Meanwhile, Alvin Francisco, a father of a child with autism, shared his personal experiences to assure his colleagues that PWDs could be able to contribute to society if given the opportunity to become self-reliant.

Rochie Solmeron, F&B captain, shared his knowledge of basic sign language.

Elmer de Guzman shared basic etiquette for dealing with blind people.

The closing remarks were given by LCDPFI Founding Chairperson Lourdes Reyes, and Ralph Placido, Holiday Inn- Crowne Plaza HR Officer.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI)-Economic Empowerment (EE) program, through its “Access to Livelihoods” project funded by Accenture conducted another Disability Sensitivity Training for a different set ofIntercontinental Manila Hotel employees last July 12, 2013 in Ayala Avenue Makati City.

As in the previous training, it was conducted in two (2) batches. The first batch was comprised of thirty-one (31) participants, while there were thirty-eight (38) participants for the second batch.  They were made up of managers, supervisors, and staff from various departments and levels, including Human Resources, Meetings & Events, Engineering, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, and Banquet Service.

Economic Empowerment (EE) Project Officer Maf Cimafranca explained  basic disability facts and relevant national and international laws on disability, while  LCDPFI Program Manager Hazel Joy Borja tackled the barriers to accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs).  LCDPFI is advocating for an accessible, barrier-free society.

Cimafranca, Borja and Training Coordinator Dianne Roxas took turns discussing the importance of “Building  An Inclusive Team”.

The Economic Empowerment (EE) program of Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc.  (LCDPFI), through its “Access to Livelihoods” project, organized a PWD Product Conference last July 18, 2013 at the People’s Hall,Quezon City Memorial Circle near Philcoa Gate in Quezon City. The said activity is part of the 35th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR) Week Celebration.

The activity aimed to provide persons with disabilities (PWDs) the opportunity to showcase their livelihood products, demonstrate their craftsmanship and ingenuity and find a market and sell these productsas part of income-generating activity. Consistent with the rights-based approach to disability, it also intends to highlight PWDs’ talents and create public awareness about disability.

The doxology and National Anthem were both led by PWDs from Parañaque City.

After the welcome remarks by LCDPFI Founding Chairperson Lourdes L. Reyes,

Program Manager Hazel Joy Borja provided the participants an overview of LCDPFI and its interrelated core programs, namely EE, Inclusive Education (IE), and Young Voices (YV).

EE Project Officer Maf Cimafranca and EE Project Officer Ed Lorenzo acted as the master of ceremonies during the program proper, while YV members, who were youth with disabilities 16-25 years old  trained on advocacy of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities  (UN CRPD) acted as the technical support team and secretariat during the activity .

They also had their own booth to help promote their national advocacy campaign, “May PWD ID Ako,Kasali Ako!”, a call for action to ensure that all persons with disabilities (PWDs) are recognized, registered and issued a PWD ID card to be able to enjoy their rights and privileges.

A 49- year old PWD entrepreneur from Project 4, Quezon City, Alpin Campomanes, shared how LCDPFI helped augment his existing livelihood (watch repair).

The National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA) Regional Program Coordinator Flerida Labanon, representing NCDA Executive Director Carmen R. Zubiaga, stressed that  disability is a rights issue, and as per the UN CRPD,  PWDs could  demands as a matter of right, and not a matter of discretion nor need. She also shared a quote from Stephen Hawking: “Disability need not be an obstacle to success.”

Hawking is an internationally-renowned physicist with neuromuscular dystrophy.

Intermission numbers were provided by Payatas Deaf Dance Troupe.

After which, there was a demonstration of crafts and livelihoods from some PWD participants,  namely Cecilio Apostol Elementary School (CAES) students,  Emmanuel Ricamonte and Kristine Rotony, who demonstrated the beads and accessories making process; an Antipolo PWD, Luzviminda Crepeno, who demonstrated hoew to make native cakes and delicacies; and blind masseurs from Edman Blind Massage and Ephpheta Foundation for the Blind, who showcased their skills in massage.

Rico Degaveja, Sales Supervisor of Sajeg Sales, Inc., briefly explained how “Scratch It” could  provide additional income opportunities for PWDs.

One hundred sixty-five participants, comprising of partners from different government agencies,  non-government organizations (NGOs), people with disabilities’ organizations, and local government units (LGUs) attended the said Conference.

After the program, the Bazaar of Products and Goods was opened.

The activity was covered by PTV 4 and Net 25.

LCDPFI is a national disability and development organization which promotes and protects the rights of PWDs in the Philippines. It is also working toward the attainment of educational equality, economic independence and PWDs active participation in social, cultural, political and civic life.

LCDPFI is the co-chair with Department of Justice of this year’s National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week celebration which has a theme “Building an Inclusive and Non-Handicapping Environment for Persons with Disabilities.”

The “Access to Livelihoods” is a three-year global cooperation project between Leonard Cheshire Disability, a U.K. – based NGO and LCDPFI with funding support from Accenture Global Foundation.

The 35th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week Celebration formally began through a one-hour “Walk for Justice” at the Quezon Memorial Circle, July 17, 2013, Wednesday morning.

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) participated in the  said  kick-off activity, together with other non-government organizations (NGOs) and national government agencies (NGAs).

Five members of the Young Voices NCR, namely Dianne Mallari, Roselyn Montaneo,  Kristelle Gonzales, Gladys Solmeo, and Mark Calvario, together with the former and present  YV Project Assistants, Helen Mae Noble and Mark Mathew Operiano, LCDPFI Program Manager Hazel Joy Borja, and  LCDPFI Founding Chairperson Lourdes L. Reyes  enthusiastically joined in the said walk.

The “Walk for Justice” was led by the Dept. of Justice (DOJ) which is the government agency in charge of this year’s celebration.

The weeklong NDPR activities  would  culminate on  the birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini, the Sublime Paralytic and the “Brains of the Revolution”, on July 23. This year’s celebration adopts the theme “Building an Inclusive and Non-Handicapping Environment for Persons with Disabilities” which aims to promote the principles and practices on equal participation of persons with disabilities                            (PWDs) in the society and the mainstreaming of disability agenda.

“May the spirit of Apolinario Mabini shine bright and through to all of us,” DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima told  the audience.

The “Walk for Justice” aims to create awareness about disability issues, with particular emphasis on the right of PWDs to access to justice.

After the long walk, National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Executive DirectorCarmen Zubiaga together with DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima then turned over theSensitivity Manuals to the city and local prosecutors to further sensitize them among their treatment to Persons with Disabilities during jurisdiction processes.

LCDPFI is the co-chair with DOJ of this year’s NDPR  Week celebration.

Mrs. Lourdes “Lulu” Reyes, Chairman of Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation Inc. was interviewed in the morning show of People’s Television 4, “Good Morning Boss”. She stressed various issues affecting Persons with Disabilities including education, rights and active participation in the society. The said interview in the broadcast media is a big thing to be considered as it will help the viewers to be more aware of disability issues in the Philippines.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HA1VGWg4Iac

Please allow us to to share with you the video interview of teacher and students of Cecilio Apostol Elementary School (CAES), a partner school on Inclusive Education (IE) program of Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) during the PWD Product Conference on July 18, 2013 at Quezon City Memorial Circle. The said interview was featured in PTV 4′s morning show “Good Morning Boss”.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3g6usSIHN0&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) and theDepartment of Justice (DOJ), in partnership with the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) spearheaded    the culminating activity  of the  35th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week celebration  at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City last July 23, 2013.

Among  the highlights of the said activity was the awarding DOJ for having a PWD-friendly and accessible website after complying with the NCDA and National Computer Center (NCC)’s Joint Circular on Web Accessibility.

The NDPR Week is commemorated annually every July 17-23, primarily to raise public awareness on disability issues. It celebrates the birthdate of Apolinario Mabini, the Sublime Paralytic and “Brains of the Revolution”, and one of the country’s foremost heroes in the struggle for Philippine independence first against Spain, and the United States.

After the Holy Mass presided by Rev. Fr. Edric S. Bedural, from the National Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Makati City, there was a “Disability Rights Talk” which aims to promote the paradigm shift from a charity-based to a rights-based approach to disability.

Ronnel del Rio, Philippine Promoter of the Third Decade of Persons with Disabilities, 2013-2023, briefly expounded on   PWDs’ right to equality and non-discrimination.

Maricel Candole, PRO of Tahanang Walang Hagdanan ; Ralph Torralba, of the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP); and Tiffany Kyle Dellomas, from  Resources for the Blind, discussed basic courtesy rules in dealing with PWDs.

NCDA Executive Director Carmen Reyes- Zubiaga  delivered the opening remarks. Later she also made a PowerPoint presentation on the highlights of the just-concluded NDPR Week celebration.

Inspirational messages were provided by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Undersecretary Parisya H. Taradji, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Grace Padaca, and DOJ Undersecretary Leah Armamento.

Closing remarks were given by LCDPFI Founding Chairperson Lourdes L. Reyes.

Economic Empowerment (EE) Project Officer Maf Cimafranca and E Project Officer Ed Lorenzo acted as the master of ceremonies during the program proper.

Young Voices also launched their advocacy videos related to disability issues and showcased the songs also composed by them. They also did a dance interpretation ofBayan Ko, which is often considered as our unofficial second national anthem.

Children and youth  with disabilities from different disability organizations also amazed the audience.  with their exceptional talents. Performers included Ms. Mylin de la Cruz, a blind student of UP College of Music;  Payatas Deaf Dance Troupe; Pastor Dong Campoy and his Mephiboseth Band; ASP’s John Paul Lumba; Cecilio Apostol Elementary School (CAES) students; and Tara Marie Santiago, ASP Dream Girls member.

A total of five hundred ninety-seven 597  participants and guests from various national government agencies (NGAs), non-government agencies (NGOs), local government units (LGUs), disabled peoples’ organizations (DPOs) and the private sector attended the said culminating activity .

This closing ceremony aims to create awareness among audiences about the equality between persons with and without disabilities when it comes to participation in political, cultural and social life as they rally towards the establishment of an inclusive and barrier-free society.

LCDPFI is a non-stock, non-profit, and non-government, organization which promotes and protects the rights of PWDs in the Philippines.

Young Voices (YV) is a project of the Leonard Cheshire Disability Global Alliance. In the Philippines, YV is one of the core programs of LCDPFI, along with Inclusive Education (IE) and Economic Empowerment (EE). It is being funded by the European Union.

YV is made up of  youth leaders with disabilities, aged 16-25 years old, who work to advocate and promote equal rights to PWDs and to raise awareness on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD). Presently there are four (4) YV chapters in the Philippines located in the National Capital Region (NCR), Cavite, Iloilo, and General Santos City to campaign for the Philippines’ implementation of the UNCRPD which ensures full  and equal enjoyment of rights for all  PWDs without discrimination. YV members are provided with capacity-building, which include training in campaigning, media (including filmmaking, music making, radio & Internet), human rights, and national political systems).

The Economic Empowerment (EE) program of Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI), through its “Access to Livelihoods” project funded by Accenture conducted a Foundation Skills Training and Personality Development Training for fifty-six (56) Deaf job applicants, held July 25, 2013 atKabalikat Hall, 3rd floor, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)Building,  Visayas Avenue, Vasra, Quezon City.

The welcome remarks were given by Prime Bonife, DENR’s Focal Person on PWD Concerns.

EE Placement Coordinator Arianne Pearl Hugo provided a brief overview of the activity. She also handled the Personality Development Training.

EE Project Officer Maf Cimafranca  discussed how LCDPFI, through the said program, assists persons with disabilities (PWDs) to overcome barriers in finding meaningful employment and livelihood opportunities through access to job information, development trainings, and support services. She also shared tips on how to become a good PWD employee.

LCDPFI Founding Chairperson Lourdes L. Reyes gave the inspirational talk.

Brigette Y. Peniano, EE Project Support Staff, also shared her personal testimony.