SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique — In a major boost to local healthcare accessibility, the provincial government of Antique has launched a program providing free physical and occupational therapy sessions to indigent Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The initiative, spearheaded by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and the Provincial Health Office, aims to bridge the gap for families who cannot afford the high costs of long-term rehabilitative care.
Bringing Care Closer The program is specifically designed for residents who have limited or no access to private rehabilitation centers.
- The Beneficiaries: Priority is given to children with developmental delays, cerebral palsy, and autism, as well as adults recovering from strokes or traumatic injuries who belong to low-income households.
- Services Offered: Licensed therapists have been deployed to key district hospitals and community centers to provide regular assessments and personalized treatment plans.
- Support for Families: Beyond the sessions, the program includes training for parents and caregivers to ensure that therapeutic exercises can be continued safely at home.
A Commitment to Inclusion Local officials highlighted that the program is not just about medical recovery, but about social inclusion and improving the quality of life for Antiqueños living with disabilities. “Rehabilitation is a right, not a luxury,” said a provincial health official during the program’s rollout. “By removing the financial barrier, we are giving our PWD sector a better chance at independence and active participation in our community.”
Sustaining the Effort To ensure the program’s longevity, the provincial government has allocated a dedicated portion of its 2026 health budget for the procurement of specialized therapy equipment and the hiring of additional medical professionals.
Families interested in availing of the free services are encouraged to coordinate with their respective Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices (MSWDO) for assessment and inclusion in the provincial registry.