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Joy and laughter filled the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) II as trainees with disabilities gathered to celebrate the holiday season during the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) annual holiday gathering for non-residential facilities nationwide on December 19, 2025.

All smiles as AVRC II staff and clients celebrate their annual year-end gathering.

Now in its third year, the year-end gathering continues to bring simple joys and meaningful experiences to clients and residents of the DSWD’s Centers and Residential Care Facilities (CRCFs), which include both residential and non-residential facilities across the country.

AVRC II remains the only non-residential facility of the DSWD in Central Visayas, serving as a training center for persons with disabilities (PWDs) by providing free skills training and vocational rehabilitation programs.

The celebration featured presentation numbers by trainees, interactive games, and moments of togetherness, allowing participants to truly feel the spirit of the holiday season.

Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero emphasized that year-end gatherings are a regular and meaningful activity in DSWD facilities, as these create opportunities for vulnerable individuals to socialize and experience the warmth and joy of the season.

“It is a tradition that we Filipinos hold dear—a time for gathering during the holidays. As a social welfare and development agency, we ensure that our residents and clients experience this joy, on top of the many interventions and services they have received throughout the year,” Director Lucero shared.

Director Lucero also noted that AVRC II’s participation in the annual gathering enabled the center to connect with other DSWD facilities nationwide through a live teleconference.

The PWD trainees enjoyed a variety of games with their fellow trainees at the AVRC II Covered Court, while talents in singing and dancing were showcased—abilities that Director Lucero hopes will continue to be nurtured throughout their stay at the center.

Extra fun at AVRC II’s year-end gathering with a comedy show and street food corner.

Each trainee with a disability received a holiday gift package containing noche buena items, five kilos of rice, and prizes from the games. The gathering also featured a comedy show and a street food corner, allowing both clients and staff to enjoy the festive celebration together.

“All smiles were seen among our trainees after what they experienced during the gathering. We give credit to our Secretary Rex Gatchalian for initiating this activity, which has now been running for three years,” Director Lucero said.

The holiday gathering was led by AVRC II Training Superintendent II Dr. Jera C. Armendarez, MD, MPH, MDM, together with DSWD Field Office 7 Regional Center Coordinator Rosemarie S. Salazar.

Meanwhile, other DSWD residential facilities will hold their respective holiday activities on December 25, 2025 (Christmas Day) and January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day), including simple meal gatherings on the eve of these celebrations. ###