The Provincial Government of Pampanga, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), convened private therapy centers in the province to discuss the provision of subsidies and enhanced support for children with special needs.

During the meeting, therapy providers shared recommendations to improve services, particularly for children with autism and other developmental conditions.

Data from the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) showed that 2,953 children aged 1 to 10 have been recorded, while 5,541 individuals aged 0 to 17 are living with intellectual, learning, mental, and psychosocial disabilities.

In response, Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda is exploring programs aimed at supporting affected children. These include the establishment of child-friendly facilities and recreational spaces, development of parks and activity areas, implementation of skills-based programs, and conduct of awareness seminars for parents.

The provincial government also plans to provide guarantee letters covering up to three months of therapy for qualified beneficiaries, in coordination with the DSWD, through a memorandum of agreement to be signed with participating therapy centers.