Dahino advances efforts for early intervention center

In line with the observance of Autism Awareness Month, City Councilor Des Dahino shared key developments in efforts to establish an early intervention center for children with special needs.

Among the latest updates, Dahino disclosed that Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy has identified a site for the facility, covering approximately 600 square meters in Barangay Pagatpat.

The Technical Working Group (TWG) conducted an inspection of the site on March 12 as part of its initial assessment. She noted that this, along with the approved ₱5 million budget for building construction, serves as “stepping stones” toward the realization of the project.

To further strengthen the initiative, Dahino, together with the City Social Welfare and Development Department (CSWD), recently conducted a benchmarking visit at the Davao City Special Needs Intervention Center for Children. 

The visit provided insights on how local government units can deliver accessible developmental assessments, therapy services, and early intervention support.

She added that coordination with stakeholders and national agencies remains ongoing, including meetings related to the DARE CAREvan initiative with DILG Region X Director Bruce A. Colao, DSWD Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs Fatimah Aliah Q. Dimaporo, DSWD Field Office X Regional Director Glofelia J. Uayan, and other partner agencies.

The councilor first pushed for the establishment of the center through a special report delivered on February 2, 2026, which led to the convening of an inter-committee meeting and the creation of a TWG tasked to advance the proposal.

Dahino then called for the continued support of fellow council members and local government departments to sustain the initiative and ensure its long-term implementation.

“Our milestone steps have given us clarity and direction. We now understand the scale of the challenge, the need for sustainability, and the importance of partnership. Most importantly, we now see that the vision is achievable,” she said. (SPE/SP)