ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR, 14 Apr (PIA) - The Badjao Community in Margosatubig was at the forefront of the Provincial Persons with Disability Affairs Office's (PDAO) third-anniversary celebration on April 11-12, 2023. The community was chosen as the pilot area for the "Adopt-A-Community" program dubbed “Mainstreaming and Appreciating the Badjao Tribe.”

The celebration was packed with various activities. The Provincial PDAO team visited the Kalian National High School and Margosatubig Academy to promote their advocacy for persons with disabilities (PWDs) on the first day. They also conducted a feeding program for Badjao children and distributed second-hand clothes to the community. Additionally, they turned over books to the Badjao Community Day Care Center. On the second day, the team held a Zumba session, turned over Livelihood Starter Kits, and organized a clean-up drive in the community.

Several guests from different organizations attended the event, including representatives from the Municipal Commission on Population (PopCom) and the Barangay Captain and Secretary. They gave messages of encouragement and support to the Badjao community.

The success of the event was possible due to the collaborative efforts of the Provincial PDAO Head, Miriam Acosta Llanos, and her staff. The Margosatubig Academy, Kalian National High School, and local officials, including Mayor Alejandro Agua, also supported the event. Additionally, volunteers and social work interns played significant roles in the event's accomplishment.

Governor Victor J. Yu was also recognized for his support for the creation of the Provincial PDAO office, which serves as a haven for PWDs and senior citizens.

The success of the celebration is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Provincial PDAO team and their partners. The event serves as a reminder of the essential role that government agencies, organizations, and individuals can play in promoting inclusivity and helping marginalized communities. (NBE/HTB/PIA Zamboanga del Sur with photos and reports from ZamboSur PDAO in Action)