FPJ Panday Bayanihan first nominee Brian Poe recently joined the World Cerebral Palsy Day Philippines celebration at SM Southmall.
This is an initiative of the Cerebral Palsy Epilepsy Family Awareness Support Group PH, a social service and support community founded by Marvin and Jessa Marmol — parents of 8-year-old Theo who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
During the event, Jessa acknowledged FPJ Panday Bayanihan’s support in bringing attention to the concerns of cerebral palsy and epilepsy, mobilizing additional resources, and through possible legislation dedicated to the cause.
Poe delivered an inspirational talk and discussed policies that should be in place for persons with disabilities (PWD).
He cited the need to invest in a comprehensive disability registration and detection system in order for PWDs to enjoy the benefits provided for them including health insurance.
The first nominee emphasized that PhilHealth packages should both provide access to assistive devices and ensure there is a system in place to maintain and update these. He also believes that education policies should be more inclusive, while advocacy and information campaigns on available interventions must be more intensified.
“We will do our best to craft relevant legislation that is appropriate for the needs of our citizens, especially children with disabilities. Together let us build a more inclusive and more progressive Philippines,” Poe said.
He said that financial support through a disability allowance could address the current unequal support faced by parents raising children with cerebral palsy or epilepsy.
Poe emphasized that among FPJ Panday Bayanihan’s goals is for social progress that includes all members of society, with and without disabilities, where they are free to enjoy the same rights and opportunities.
Cerebral Palsy Epilepsy Family Awareness Support Group PH is currently comprised of over 1,900 families nationwide. It seeks to promote widespread awareness through parenting workshops and educational seminars on cerebral palsy, within and outside its immediate community.
