Two persons with work-related disabilities (PWRDs) received a total of P90,500 worth of prostheses through the Katulong at Gabay sa Manggagawang may Kapansanan (KaGabay) Program of the Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC) in General Santos City on June 10, 2024.

Romel Araquil and Julius Jay Miguel both suffered injuries due to a crushing incident at their workplaces.

Araquil worked as a security guard at an agribusiness farm in General Santos City. In December 2022, as he was closing the roll-up door of a new building, his left hand accidentally got stuck in the cable wire causing his arm to be severely injured. This incident resulted in the amputation of his left wrist.

Miguel, on the other hand, worked as a warehouse helper in a canning company in General Santos City. In July 2023, while he was on duty, he slipped and accidentally shoved his hand into a blower fan which resulted in the amputation of his right ring finger.

Physical restoration, as one component of the Katulong at Gabay sa Manggagawang may Kapansanan (KaGabay) Program, includes the provision of assistive devices and prostheses to occupationally disabled workers.

Araquil received a below-elbow prosthesis amounting to P62,500, and Miguel received a silicone finger prosthesis amounting to P28,000. Additionally, both workers underwent free physical therapy sessions. Araquil received three (3) consultations, sixteen (16) physical therapy sessions, and will undergo post-prosthesis physical therapy. Miguel received two (2) consultations, twelve (12) physical therapy sessions, and nine (9) occupational therapy sessions.

“ECC, through the KaGabay Program, remains committed to its mandate of helping beneficiaries recover from work-related contingencies. The program provides assistive devices and prostheses to our persons with work-related disabilities (PWRDs), enabling them to regain employment and be an active member of our society once again,” said Executive Director Kaima Via B. Velasquez.

The ECC is a government corporation attached to the Department of Labor and Employment for policy formulation and program coordination. It is mandated to provide meaningful and appropriate compensation benefits to workers and their dependents in the event of work-related sickness, injury, disability or death.

K. Daga – REU 12