BY: VANESSA BUGTONG
As part of the city’s recognition of persons with disabilities (PWDs), the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) provided free medical services to nearly 150 beneficiaries today.
Among them was 68-year-old Nilda Deliquina, who has been caring for her 28-year-old son with Down syndrome.
“Raising him has been very challenging,” she shared.
Now in her senior years, Nilda struggles to provide for her son’s needs, especially as financial constraints continue to mount.
“I don’t have a job, and we really need guidance and support,” she added.
For her and many other families, today’s medical services—offered as part of the city’s observance of National Down Syndrome Awareness and Rare Disease Month—were a huge relief.
“Medical check-ups and assessments are very helpful for us,” she said.
Aside from medical assistance, PWDs also received support in showcasing their talents. One of them was 21-year-old Ty Constantin Carantes, who aspires to be a game developer.
With the increasing number of PWDs in the city, the government and PDAO continue to implement programs that focus on their health and well-being.
“This initiative aims to support them in all aspects of life and help uplift their standard of living,” said Dr. Samuel Aquino, head of PDAO Baguio City.
Dr. Virginia Narsiso, chief of the Local Health Support Division at DOH-CHD CAR, emphasized the importance of extending medical assistance to PWDs.
“Providing them with these services is crucial, especially given their circumstances,” she said.
More activities are lined up for the month, including the Paralympics, which highlight the skills and capabilities of PWDs, proving that they can excel in their own ways.
