by Clyde Nolasco
Over a thousand persons with disabilities (PWD) gathered at Don Bosco Makati last December 7 for the 20th PWD Day organized by the Archdiocese of Manila.
Entitled and given the hashtag #GoUnliServe, the celebration saw the incredible energy of our brothers and sisters with disabilities who took part in various activities such as song and dance numbers, art activities, a magic show, and photo ops.
They were also provided medical, dental and even reflexology services, thanks to volunteer doctors, dentists and reflexologists. Free legal services were likewise offered by volunteer lawyers. There was also a raffle for flat screen tvs, washing machines, and other prizes.
A mass was led by His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle who stressed that God is near to those who are suffering not just physically but most especially to those who are emotionally hurt.
Awards
The Archdiocese of Manila Ministry on Persons with a Disability or AMMPD also awarded groups and individuals for their unwavering support for PWD Day. The awardees are Tenth Journey Volunteers Society Incorporation, TV Maria, Philippine Friendship Dental Team (PFDT), Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc, PUP College of Communication Department of Advertising and Public Relations (ADPR), National Council on Disability Affairs, Mrs. Elva Espino, Don Bosco Technical Institute, Don Bosco Alumni Office and Rev. Fr. Ambrosio Nonato Legaspi.
Annual Celebration
The Archdiocese of Manila, through its Archdiocese of Manila Ministry on Persons with Disabilities (AMMPD), celebrates PWD day every first Saturday of December, gathering all the PWD ministries from different parishes, institutions and schools in the Archdiocese.