CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Children with disabilities from vulnerable families in Pampanga will receive expanded support with the launching of Project Aruga, a joint initiative of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the provincial government, and the local government of Lubao.
The program was formalized through a memorandum of agreement, marking its rollout implementation that will initially benefit 100 children.
Project Aruga aims to provide inclusive and responsive services, including early detection and intervention, monthly financial assistance, and improved access to education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities.
Governor Lilia Pineda stressed the need to prioritize children with special needs.
“Kailangan sila talagang arugain. Ito ang aking pangarap—na ang mga batang ipinanganak na bingi, lumpo, o bulag, na madalas na napapabayaan at iniisip na walang kinabukasan, ay mabigyan ng sapat na atensyon. (They really need to be nurtured. This is my dream—that children born hard-of-hearing, crippled, or blind, who are often neglected and thought to have no future, are given adequate attention),” she said.
Under the program, beneficiaries will receive ₱2,000 monthly assistance for one year, along with support services for their development.
Parents and caregivers will also undergo training to strengthen their capacity to support their children.
DSWD said Lubao was selected as the pilot area in Central Luzon, targeting children with various disabilities, including those with visual impairments and rare diseases.
Lubao Mayor Esmeralda Pineda said the initiative complements existing services at the Pampanga Children’s Center and assured proper screening to prioritize indigent beneficiaries.
DSWD Regional Director Venus Rebuldela said the program will be evaluated for expansion.
“Bibigyan po natin sila ng assistance upang masuportahan ang kanilang mga pangangailangan. Ipa-pilot po natin ito ng isang taon, at magse-scale up po tayo next year para sa karagdagang beneficiaries. (We will provide them with assistance to support their needs. We will pilot this for one year, and we will scale it up next year for additional beneficiaries),” she said.
Officials said the initiative reflects a shared commitment to inclusive development by ensuring that children with disabilities are given access to essential services and opportunities.
The post DSWD, Pampanga LGUs launch Project Aruga for children with disabilities first appeared on Pampanga News Now.