28 July 2023, Cotabato City. The Philippine Statistics Authority – Regional Statistical Services Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PSA-RSSO-BARMM) participated in the observance of National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week through an Outreach Program at the DSWD Region 12 Center for Handicapped located in Cotabato City.
This initiative was spearheaded by the OIC Regional Director, Engr. Akan G. Tula, and facilitated by Ms. Melanie S. Mohammad, Information Officer I of PSA BARMM.
The activity is part of the celebration of the office's milestones for reaching its 10th-anniversary mark. The 45th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week is being celebrated from July 17th to 23rd, 2023, with the theme: “Person with Disabilities Accessibility and Rights: Towards a Sustainable Future where No One is Left Behind.”
The outreach program aims to help, uplift, and support those who are deprived of certain services and rights. Mr. Ombra Sangcupan, the Center head, was delighted with the idea that their facility was chosen as the beneficiary of the outreach program.
It marked almost thirty (30) years of his service in the Center, and it was their first time to receive such programs. He emphasized RA 7277 or Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, BP blg 344 or Accessibility Law, and RA 10754, which aim to provide persons with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in the mainstream of society by granting them at least (20%) discount and exemption from VAT, as some of the rights of PWDs.
Moreover, OIC-RD Tula shared an inspirational message on how life is well planned by our Creator and stressed the reasons for everything that happens in our society. He quoted, “We should always be grateful to our Creator and accept everything with love in our hearts.” Before giving his speech, he asked all the PSA-BARMM staff to gather in front and share a hug with one PWD, warmly saying, “We love you.” He also discussed the mandates of the office, emphasizing the importance of obtaining quality and reliable statistics through survey undertakings, civil registration, and the Philsys identification system.
A lecture on civil registration and its importance was given by Mr. Delson Yusop, Registration Officer IV, and instructions on how to obtain the Philsys ID were provided by Mr. Bolkiah Dumama, Registration Officer III.
The day commenced with a feeding program, distributing a meal from a favorite fast-food chain and drinks. The fun and enjoyment of the one hundred (110) PWD beneficiaries were completed with the giving of raffle prizes. Staff from the DSWD Center, student trainees, and their parents were also given the opportunity to obtain their Philsys ID."
ENGR. AKAN G TULA
OIC-Regional Director
EDFE/MSM
