QC gov’t urged to build SPED centers for special children

A councilor has pushed for the establishment of at least one government-run special education (SPED) center for children with special needs in each of Quezon City’s four districts.

Citing the need to provide support and assistance to special children, Councilor Aly Medalla called on Mayor Herbert Bautista to set up “district SPED centers” to promote the rights of children with special needs, particularly on quality education.

She pointed out that the establishment of these centers, particularly in areas without SPED schools, would help lower the cost of educating special children.

“Establishing district SPED centers will also create awareness and a positive attitude effect toward disability,” Medalla said.

She added that these special schools could also serve as venues to ensure that children with special needs would be able to develop their abilities, talents and interests.

The development of special children will help them become more responsible for their lives and effective partners in the community’s concerns and affairs, Medalla said.

Meanwhile, the city government together with private organizations and civil society groups led by Miriam College swore to protect children’s rights in Quezon City.

Bautista, Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte and officials of Miriam College and other groups signed the other day a covenant for a “child-friendly” movement to transform communities into better places for children.