By Rowena T. Cruz Representatives from Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon attend the 1st Semestral Meeting for the CALABARZON PWD F...
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| Representatives from Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon attend the 1st Semestral Meeting for the CALABARZON PWD Federation, focusing on federation elections and crucial healthcare benefits like PhilHealth ZMORPH. (Quezon PIO) |
TAYABAS CITY, Quezon – Empowering Persons With Disability (PWD) through robust programs and unified action took center stage yesterday as the CALABARZON PWD Federation successfully held the first day of its 2-day 1st Semestral Meeting for 2025. The pivotal gathering took place on Wednesday, June 4, at the St. Jude Cooperative Hotel in Brgy. Isabang, Tayabas City.
The event was spearheaded by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), under the leadership of Ms. Sonia S. Leyson. Representatives from all five CALABARZON provinces—Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon—were in attendance, showcasing a unified regional effort for PWD welfare.
The meeting addressed the crucial topic of Synchronization of Election on Federation. This initiative aims to streamline the leadership transition process within the PWD federation, aligning with broader national efforts to ensure accessible and efficient electoral processes, including those for vulnerable sectors. Agencies like the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) have previously emphasized the importance of such inclusivity in elections.
Another significant area covered was legal mandates concerning healthcare coverage for Persons with Disabilities. This is a critical aspect, as PWDs often face unique challenges in accessing adequate healthcare. Discussions likely revolved around existing laws like Republic Act No. 7277 (Magna Carta for Disabled Persons) and Republic Act No. 10754, which expand benefits and privileges, including discounts on medical services.
A highlight of the meeting was the PhilHealth ZMORPH (Mobility, Orthosis, Rehabilitation, Prosthesis Help) Orientation. This PhilHealth "Z benefit" package is designed to provide comprehensive financial assistance for prostheses and related rehabilitation services. The ZMORPH program covers various assistive technologies, from upper and lower limb prostheses to different types of orthoses, and includes the entire management from pre-prosthetic/orthotic assessment to rehabilitation and occupational therapy sessions.
The ZMORPH program aims to empower individuals, particularly those who have lost limbs, by significantly improving their mobility and overall quality of life. Eligibility generally extends to all eligible PhilHealth members and qualified dependents who meet specific criteria, such as being at least three months post-amputation for acquired limb loss.
The Provincial Government pledges its continued support to strengthen programs offering opportunities for the CALABARAZON PWD Federation, reinforcing the commitment to inclusive development and ensuring PWDs are active, self-reliant members of society. The meeting continues today, June 5, 2025.
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