The construction of the Davao City Special Needs Intervention Center for Children is now in the blueprint at an estimated cost of P41 million.
City Social Services and Development Office (CSSDO) head Maria Luisa Bermudo confirmed on Wednesday that all materials needed for the establishment of the center are ready.
The construction of the Center, which will be located at the back of People’s Park, is expected to take off in 2021.
âThere is already a proposal design and perspective to present to our city mayor for the approval of their building, but we also have to factor that our city has a very big population when it comes to the land area,â Bermudo said.
Bermudo said the real work begins if the ordinance will be approved. The proposed ordinance was approved on second reading during the City Council regular session on Tuesday.
According to Bermudo, the Center would cater to children from ages 0-6 years old.
“These are the ages with social skills to be improved and they can go to school as well,â Bermudo said.
The Center would offer an early intervention and transition program and Allied Medical Services including occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy.
Councilor Antoinette Principe, who is pushing for the approval of the ordinance, said the city government has the policy to assist children with special needs.
âIt is the policy of the city government of Davao to pursue the right of all citizens to (give) quality education and services and take appropriate steps to make education accessible to all and offer quality interventions for the children with developmental delays and behavioral concerns,â she said.
It is also noted that Presidential Decree No. 603 or the Child and Youth Welfare Code provides that emotionally disturbed or socially maladjusted children shall be treated with sympathy and understanding and shall be entitled to treatment and competent care and that the physically or mentally handicapped child shall be given the treatment, education, and care. CIO
