Almost 60 persons with disabilities (PWDs) from the Visayas and Mindanao received their diplomas during the 35th graduation exercises of the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center 11 (AVRC) in barangay Labangon, Cebu City.
The graduates finished livelihood courses like therapeutic massage, consumer electronics, computer technology, commercial arts and crafts, basic cosmetology, commercial cooking, basic sewing, dress and apparel technology and furniture and cabinet making.
Eight of them were awarded as outstanding students and were given training tools by Richard Cuaho, president of the Cebu Centennial Lions Club.
The Department of Education also awarded certificates to the 12 elementary pupils and 12 high school students who graduated under the alternative learning system.
The certificates will qualify students for jobs requiring high school diplomas or for college enrollment.
Training center superintendent Herminia Cabahug reported that most of the graduates last year are now employed.
AVRC is a vocational training center operated and maintained by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) that caters to persons with physical and social disabilities like the visually impaired, physically handicapped, negative hansenites, mentally challenge, released prisoners and other disadvantaged sectors.
The center aims to maximize the residual capacities of PWDs through assessment and guidance, social adjustment, medical, vocational training and placement services.
PWDs who want to enroll at the center may approach their municipal or city social welfare office or call 2620001 or 2628107.