As a tribute to a long-standing Filipino Catholic tradition, trainees with disabilities at the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) II joined the center’s inclusive Santacruzan celebration on May 28, 2025, held at the AVRC II compound in Brgy. Labangon, Cebu City.

The event was an immersive experience for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), particularly those who are Deaf, visually impaired, or have orthopedic conditions. It served as an opportunity to engage in cultural and religious practices and foster inclusivity.

Operated by DSWD Field Office 7, AVRC II provides vocational rehabilitation and skills training for persons with disabilities to become self-reliant and productive members of society.

Activities like the Santacruzan are integrated into the rehabilitation process to boost self-esteem, confidence, social interaction, and a sense of belonging within the community.

The celebration also showcased the talents of LGBTQIA+ trainees, particularly in makeup, styling, crafts, and costume designing. “Many of our Deaf trainees belong to the rainbow community and are exceptionally talented and creative. We want them to feel valued and appreciated because AVRC II is a safe space for them,” said Dr. Jera C. Armendarez, MD, MDM, MPH, Training Center Superintendent II.

She also added that inclusivity is a core principle of the center, “we don’t want to contribute to the stigma that being a person with a disability or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community is a reason to disregard them. Instead, we strive to be a safe and supportive space for them.”

Blind trainees were fully engaged through guided sensory experiences, as staff described the sights, sounds, and emotions of the event. “We help them visualize and connect with the celebration by describing to them the moment,” Dr. Armendarez explained.

The Santacruzan marks the culmination of Flores de Mayo, a beloved Catholic devotion in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The procession retells the story of Queen Helena and her son Constantine’s discovery of the Holy Cross.

At AVRC II, the trainees portrayed the traditional sagalas by wearing gowns they designed and created themselves. They walked beneath arches and umbrellas also crafted by them, accompanied by fellow trainees and staff.

The presentation concluded with the crowning of the AVRC II Flores de Mayo Queen 2025.

By making cultural and religious activities inclusive, AVRC II shows its commitment to holistic rehabilitation—nurturing not just skills development but also faith, community, and participation for all. ###