The Municipality of New Lucena emerged as this year’s Champion in the Search for the Most Outstanding Persons with Disability (PWD)-Friendly City/Municipality in the Province of Iloilo.
Mayor Carl Vincent Mondejar, together with the municipal PWD coordinators, proudly received the Plaque of Recognition and a cash prize of ₱50,000. Last year, New Lucena was awarded first runner-up in the competition.
The towns of Leganes and Guimbal were declared first and second runners-up, respectively, with cash prizes of ₱30,000 and ₱20,000.
Meanwhile, the following municipalities were recognized as finalists: Banate, Miagao, Badiangan, Concepcion, Tigbauan, Pavia, and Alimodian.
The awarding ceremony, which capped the 48th National Disability Rights (NDR) Week celebration, honored the innovation and best practices of local government units in advancing the welfare of persons with disabilities.
The recognition rites were led by Vice Governor Nathalie Ann Debuque, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) Acting Provincial Government Department Head Rani Melvi Cuarte, PWD Focal Person Ma. Christine Roa, PWD Federation President Ana Liza Hudierez, and members of the Technical Working Group (TWG).
In her message, Vice Governor Debuque congratulated the awardees, emphasizing that their achievements serve as an inspiration for other LGUs to strengthen their initiatives for the PWD sector.
She further expressed that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, together with Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., fully supports programs and projects that promote the welfare of persons with disabilities.
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