Sixty seven (67) persons with disabilities (PWDs) recently graduated from the technical vocational program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office Field Office VII (DSWD-7) through the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center II (AVRC II).

Of the 67 graduates, 23 finished massage therapy, 3 on furniture and cabinet making, 11 on commercial cooking, 3 on commercial arts and crafts, 4 on basic cosmetology, 7 on dress and apparel technology, 5 on housekeeping, 5 on computer technology and 6 graduated consumer electronics.

DSWD-7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre stressed that AVRC II has been serving the PWD community for more than 40 years and continuously providing rehabilitation programs and services so that PWDs can acquire skills and eventually find decent employment.

The recent graduates hail from various cities and town in Visayas.

During the graduation rites, 44 visually impaired masseurs and masseuse were also recognized for passing the massage therapy licensure examination.

Another 30 PWDs were also recognized for completing the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

Other AVRCs are located in Region I in Luzon, Region IX in Mindanao and in Quezon City under DSWD-NCR.

The center aims to maximize the capacities of PWDs through assessment and guidance, social adjustment, medical, vocational training and placement services as well as bring maximum functioning of PWDs for their eventual integration into the community. ###

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