38 PWD Students receive Educational Assistance

By Albert Lacanlale

LUBAO, Pampanga—Thirty-eight physically-challenged students received educational assistance from Mayor Esmeralda “Esmie” G. Pineda on Wednesday (August 14) in simple ceremonies at the Municipal Hall here.

Mayor Pineda handed cash assistance amounting to P1,500 for each of the persons with disability (PWD) beneficiaries identified by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO).

The financial assistance was derived from the annual budget set aside by the local government unit for programs focused on the PWDs.

The beneficiaries belong to various schools’
Special Education (SPED) classes; secondary and college levels. They were also registered PWDs in the MSWDO records.

MSWDO head, Marilou delos Reyes, said the event was a part of the nationwide observance of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week.

Delos Reyes, along with PWD Focal Person Erwin Meneses and MSWDO staff, assisted Mayor Pineda in the distribution of the financial aids.

“The MSWDO programs and activities like this will help uplift PWDs to become self reliant, productive members of the society and partners in nation building,” Delos Reyes said.

Mayor Pineda, for her part, reiterated the value of education to the beneficiaries to improve their well-being despite their physical challenges.

The mayor encouraged the PWD-beneficiaries to remain undaunted by criticisms.

“Do not allow others to dampen your spirit in reaching your goals. Remain focused on your aspirations. Your government is always here to support you and make sure that your rights are well protected,” Mayor Pineda added.