G-Jay Oandasan of Sual Pangasinan, a youth with one leg and without hands or ‘amputee’  is among the 56 persons with disability (PWD)  who passed training courses at DSWD Area-1 Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) in Dagupan City.

After training for 6 months to 1 year, these PWD-trainees have acquired skills on dress making, tailoring, Massage Therapy, Food and Canteen Management, Beauty Care and Hairdressing, Orientation and Mobility, and Braille Reading.

G-Jay Oandasan is a real inspiration among the PWDs who were confirmed graduates by Asst. Regional Director Marlene Febes D. Peralta during the 50th Graduation Exercises held recently.

Despite G-Jay’s disability, his confidence and self worth is shown in his cheerful  face. Now even more confident because of his acquired skills in Food and Canteen Management.

Apart from mainstreaming in the community and independent living,  70% of the trainees were already employed prior to their graduation. Indeed, employment facilitation is among the concerns of the AVRC to help these  PWD graduates access their right for development and employment at the same time.

True to this remarkable changes in the lives of these PWDs, Center Head Elizabeth C. Manuel reminded them to pursue greater dreams. “After this commencement exercise, you should also graduate from your feelings of pity and hopelessness, to emphasize on abilities rather than disabilities,”  Ms. Manuel further advised.

Also, the AVRC -1 is already an accredited training facility by the Department of Health particularly on massage therapy. (by: Iryn D. Cubangbang, Information  Officer II).