Ruben Gamalando, Most Outstanding Trainee for 2013 with DSWD Assec. Camilo Gudmalin and ARD Consejo Usman

Fifty one persons with disability (PWDs) received their diplomas after successfully completing their respective courses along vocational skills at the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center III.

Ruben Gamalando, who was awarded as Most Outstanding Trainee this year, during his testimony shared some of his life’s challenges. Orthopedically handicapped, due to a tragic incident at a construction site where he worked, he refused to let the incident be a hindrance to his thirst for education. “Di ko man naabot pa ang aking pangarap na makatapos ng kolehiyo, ito ay isa na sa mga daan na magdadala sa akin sa aking pangarap.”

Ruben, along with the others, undergone trainings on various skills at the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center, which is facility managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Said facility was established to cater to PWDs in capacitating them to become productive individuals, capable of taking care of themselves through the skills that they have acquired.

Graduates of this year availed courses along Agriculture, Basic Computer Operations, Commercial Arts, Cosmetology, Graphic Arts, Garments Technology, Industrial Arts and Scientific Massage. Mrs. Fatima Caminan, AVRC Superintendent revealed that majority of the center’s graduates are hired by recognized Spas within the region and its neighboring cities like Cagayan de Oro.

Guests during the activity were DSWD Assec. Camilo Gudmalin and Ms. Aida Magracia, who was the former Division Chief of Operations Division of DSWD 9.