Tuguegarao City- The Employees’ Compensation Commission Regional Extension Unit 2 (ECC-REU 2) together with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 2, awards livelihood starter kits to nine persons with work-related disabilities (PWRDs) in Region 2.

Joel Riguis, Venancio Corsino, Antonio Cabauatan Jr., Leon Dad-anga, Jopiter Contillo, Nino Pinera, Marlon Z. Babaran, Cherry Pie Davin, and Richard Sarmiento received the starter kits, in the form of food processing kits last March 8, 2016 during an awarding ceremony held at DOLE Regional Office No. 2.

Comprised of 40L steamer, a meat mincer, meat tenderizer, utility tray, wooden chopping board, measuring cups, spoons, tongs, mixing bowls and other basic needs for food processing, the livelihood starter kits were awarded to the PWRDs after they have completed their course on Entrepreneurial Development Training at Lasam Institute of Technology last December 11-13, 2015.

While undergoing livelihood training, PWRDs were also provided with transportation and meal allowance. The training fees, meal and transportation allowance, and the starter kits which amounted to P45,870.00 forms part of their benefits under the Katulong at Gabay sa Manggagawang May Kapansanan, or KaGabay Program.

These PWRDs met accidents within the course of their employment. Upon the approval of their EC disability benefit, they were able to undergo free physical and occupational therapy and other related rehabilitation services.

Mr. Jopiter Contillo, one of the beneficiaries said, “ECC is like a flashlight in one’s dim and dark life, a dream builder and a proof that government programs are not just promises but really exists and implemented.”

ECC Executive Director Stella Zipagan-Banawis said, “The ECC’s service to the PWRDs does not end with provision of benefits to PWRDs. We also ensure that after they received their EC benefits, they have the means and the ability to earn whether through re-employment or through establishment of their livelihood undertaking”.

“Through convergence programs with the Department of Labor and Employment and other government and private institutions, PWRDs can now easily access the programs and services offered by the ECC, Banawis added.”

On the other hand, Banawis reminded all workers and establishments to observe safety and health in the workplace. “Prevention of work-related accidents or sickness is always better than to receive compensation for such”.

End
With reports from Remedios Andrada, ECC REU 2 Information Officer II