The Department of Labor and Employment officially turned-over on Febuary 2, 2017 the 300 thousand worth of Canteen Establishment cum Bread and Pastry Livelihood Assistance to the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center-III of Department of Social Welfare and Development- Field Office IX.

The said project will be managed and benefited by 40 PWD members of the United Clients Builders Association (UPCBA) that will help them engage and start livelihood activities through the supervision of the center.

Chief LEO for Zamboanga City, Ian Lahi urged the beneficiaries to take care of the assistance given to them so it will help them and their families.

Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Labor and Employment Region IX,   Mr. YahYah Centi also expressed his appreciation to the PWD clients and has encouraged everyone to value the opportunity given by the Government to them. “One thing’s for sure we are committed to you. This is about giving you hope, this is about giving you optimism. This is about hope in your dreams, hope in your realization and hope in your day to day. DOLE and DSWD has always been a partner.” Centi said.

The ceremony was attended by the members of United Clients Builders Association, PWDs and DSWD staff.

The PWD clients of AVRC who are members of the said association underwent trainings under the Technical Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) on Baking and Pastry Production for fifteen days. AVRC-III Superintendent, Leila Awis said that the realization of the said canteen will be implemented as soon as the repair and construction have already been finished

The clients under the AVRC undergo several phases such as Social Rehabilitation, Training, On-Job Training and Placement. The center seeks to assist persons with disabilities in achieving the highest level of physical, social and economic adjustment by maximizing their residual capacities through a wide range of social and vocational activities. ##