Jude Anthony Oriondo, a visually impaired person from Samar province could not believe that someone like him would be able to hone his skills in the use of a computer.
Oriondo was one of the 91 persons with disabilities who have officially completed social and vocational training at the National Vocational Training Center (NVRC) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Quezon City.
On Friday, they graduated after undergoing skills training in housekeeping and janitorial services, dressmaking, adaptive computer for the visually impaired, massage therapy, beauty care and hairdressing, computer software, food service management, and social rehabilitation.
Oriondo started his Adaptive Computer Technology for the Blind at the NVRC in May 2023 and officially completed the course this year, including the social preparation lesson.
“Hindi ko sukat akalain na kaya palang mag-computer ng blind. Dito ko po nalaman na kaya naman. Maganda po siyang start, parang new start na rin para sa akin (I never imagined that blind individuals could use computers. Here, I learned that it’s possible. It’s a good start, like a new beginning for me as well),” he said after the 70th commencement exercises held at the facility.
He was so proud of his newly acquired skills, which he said he could use in his current job at the Action Center of Quezon City District 3.
“Lubos na pagpapasalamat (sa DSWD). Sana ay mas marami pa silang maturuan na kagaya ko. Kasi po maganda kasi itong platform na ito eh para mabigyan ng chance ang mga PWDs na mag-shine din sa life at mabigyan ng bagong simula. Sobrang salamat po sa DSWD, sa NVRC (I am deeply grateful to the DSWD. I hope they can teach more people like me. Because this platform is really good to give PWDs a chance to shine in life and to have a fresh start. Thank you very much to the DSWD, to the NVRC),” he said.
In her message during the graduation rites, Assistant Secretary for International Affairs, and Attached and Supervised Agencies Elaine F. Fallarcuna said the milestone is a testament to the participants’ perseverance in overcoming challenges and their unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.
“Each graduate embodies the spirit of resilience, complementing that with hard work, determination, and support, any obstacle can be overcome. These graduates have not only embraced their unique talents and abilities, but have also exemplified unwavering determination, resilience, and dedication throughout their vocational and rehabilitation journey,” she said.
With the theme “Do rise for success, persons with different abilities as productive members of society,” the graduation ceremony marked a momentous occasion that empowers and acknowledges PWDs, she said.
The NVRC is a non-residential facility of the DSWD – National Capital Region, which provides programs and services to assist enrolled PWDs and other vulnerable groups in developing their independent skills and positive attitude.
It provides a learning environment that enables PWDs to return to their communities as better individuals in terms of making decisions, articulating their ideas, relating to people, and improving economic conditions.
The DSWD assured its continuous support for the vulnerable sectors in achieving their full potential through the various programs and services offered at the NVRC and reaffirmed its commitment to creating inclusive and accessible opportunities for all individuals. (PNA)
