As part of disaster preparedness
Bulacan orients employees and child development workers on RA 10821, basic sign language

CITY OF MALOLOS – As part of the observance of National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) and National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week, the Provincial Government of Bulacan through its Provincial Social Welfare Development Office conducted the ‘Orientation on RA 10821 and Basic Sign Language’ for its employees, social workers and child development workers (CDW) in the province through online conference via Zoom application yesterday.

This is in line with the Evacuation Center Coordination and Management (ECCM) program of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office for the province’s preparedness in times of disaster.

Also known as the Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act, RA 10821 was signed and approved last May 18, 2016, which sets a standard of accountability to children in terms of protection and provision of their needs before, during and after a disaster.

According to Clarita Libiran of PDRRMO, aside from children, pregnant/lactating women and children with disabilities are also protected under this act and should be assured with immediate delivery of basic necessities and services.

Moreover, Ana Maria Santos and Efrida Christina Jo Zapanta from AKAPIN, Inc., an organization of parents for children and youth with disability, also spearheaded the basic sign language training to teach the CDWs and social workers to communicate with children with special needs especially in time that they require assistance during an unforeseen event, disaster or during their stay at the evacuation centers.

Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando stressed the importance of the role of social workers and child development workers in guiding and understanding the youth especially when they are most needed.

“Kayo ang katuwang ng ating pamahalaan sa pag-aalaga sa ating mga kabataan lalo na sa panahon ng sakuna. Tayo, bilang ginamit ng Panginoon upang tumulong at maglingkod, ito ay panawagan ng sakripisyo at pag-unawa para maiangat ang dangal ng ating mga kabataan at ating mga kalalawigan. Sinusuportahan po natin ang mga ganitong layunin para sa ating mga kabataan lalu na ‘yong mga batang may special needs,” the governor said. ###