News Feature: PWDs mentored in jewelry-making

By Margie L. Gadian

Monday 6th of August 2012

SAN JOSE, Antique, Aug 6 (PIA) -- The celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week has highlighted the accomplishments of persons with disabilities (PWD) in Antique.

The week-long observance opened doors to more opportunities for those who are not yet in the loop by opening their eyes to the importance of being counted as a member of this big organization of about 8,000 registered members all throughout the province.

For one, the provincial government has channeled funds to support different programs aside from creating a Provincial Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), a first in the country, that will handle all concerns and programs of this sector.

A non-government organization has also realized the need to take care of this group not only physically but also provide livelihood to them and their families so they may be able to stand on their own feet.

A Dutch lady with polio, Liliane Brekelmans-Gronet, founded the non-government organization Liliane Foundation guided by the saying, “Don’t just give them fish but teach them how to fish.”

The foundation started its programs and services in the Philippines in 1985 with Sr. Agnetia Naval as the first mediator and worker, five years after it was founded.

Liliane Foundation believes in strategic partnership, which plays an important role in reinforcing the intervention chain. Strategic partners are organizations, knowledge institutions and companies that the foundation cooperates.

The work around the Philippines is currently being carried out by more than 100 local partners, San Jose, Antique included and supervised by technical consultants.

One of their programs is income generating projects and job development.

With the help of Adante Leyesa, a Batangas-born designer of handmade accessories, a group of PWDs and their families were mentored to make fashionable handmade accessories.

These pieces are now out in the market for sale and little by little have gained loyal customers who appreciate the beautiful and world-class items our PWDs are making.

In fact, an atelier has been opened to showcase their finished products at Dalipe Trade town, San Jose, Antique.

Who would ever think, that these persons once looked down as a liability would rise one day and fend for themselves and become useful citizens of this country.

With proper guidance and sufficient support from concerned organizations, government and people, our less fortunate brothers and sisters could find a niche in this world, respected and cared and be proud to be a Filipino and an Antiqueño (JCM/MLG-PIA6 Antique)