Dahino steps up efforts for children with special needs

The City Council committee on women and family relations chaired by Councilor Desiree Ann Dahino continues to advance efforts to provide free or subsidized diagnosis and therapy services for children with autism and other special needs in the city.

The proposed therapy services for children with autism and other special needs is currently rolling in the committee of women and family relations chaired by Councilor Dahino.

In its meeting with the social services, education, health, and barangay affairs committees, the committee took up the special report delivered by Councilor Dahino during the 25th regular session of the City Council.

One key point discussed was the status of the ₱5 million continuing appropriation allocated in 2019 for the establishment of a child development center for children with special needs.

It was revealed that the proposed site in Barangay Iponan is no longer feasible, as a structure has already been constructed on the identified lot.

Dr. Reuben Daba, consultant of the City Social Welfare and Development Department (CSWD), shared that the establishment of a dedicated center has long been envisioned, with funding already set aside. Unfortunately, the construction of the facility did not materialize as planned.

But he remains hopeful that the project could finally move forward and even recommended that the proposed center be located near a health facility to ensure accessibility and integrated services.

Meanwhile, the CSWD emphasized the need for additional tools and resources to conduct initial assessments, including cognitive and intelligence testing, in order to address long waiting lists and the limited availability of specialists.

Committee on barangay affairs chair Councilor Marlo Tabac noted that once the center is established, related support systems are expected to follow.

He also recommended coordinating with the City Assessor’s Office to identify available government-owned properties that may be suitable for the project.

For her part, Councilor Imee Moreno proposed the creation of a Technical Working Group (TWG), which the committee unanimously approved, to further study and operationalize the initiative. Accordingly, the TWG will be led by Councilor Dahino, with Councilors Tabac and Paolo Gaane as members, alongside representatives from the CSWD, City Budget Office, City Finance Office, and City Assessor’s Office.

Considering the matter urgent, Councilor Dahino directed that immediate site visits be conducted in recommended areas.

The CSWD was likewise requested to submit a comprehensive list of its existing programs for children with special needs, as well as proposed priority interventions, to guide the next steps. A follow-up meeting is scheduled within 60 days, with the expectation that a progress report will be presented. (SPE/SP)