Ch. 04
Ch. 04
Ch. 04
Q.2. What approach does the center take to create an inclusive and supportive
learning environment both for CSNs and their caregivers/parents?
a) What programs are the manifestation of this/these approaches? Please
enumerate.
As articulated by Sir Gab, the center adopts a holistic approach in addressing the
requirements of the children, their families, and the respective communities they
inhabit. Driven by these objectives, the center has developed and executed
specialized programs tailored to address these needs, with the ultimate goal of
enhancing the quality of life and socioeconomic status of every community
member, irrespective of their circumstances.
Q.2. Could you provide an in-depth overview of the services, programs, and
support structures your learning center offers to children with learning and
intellectual disabilities?
a) What strategies and methodologies do you employ to identify and assess the
unique and varying needs of children with special needs who attend your
center?
b) Can you share specific examples of innovative practices and approaches your
center has adopted to create an inclusive and supportive learning
environment for these children?
“There are definitely services catered to that category. Ang pinaka-maraming kine-cater
naming na kids are kids in the ASD, those with ADHD—which are only a few that fall
under the categories Learning and Intellectual Disabilities. Those, kasi, vary according
to the assessment and diagnosis of the medical professional. But when it comes to the
programs, malaking ang percentage talaga ng mga may ADHD and mga nasa ASD.
The services include the therapy services na nahahati sa tatlo—physical therapy,
occupational therapy, and speech and language pathology.”
At the recommendation of the developmental pediatrician, the center offers ten (10)
complimentary therapy sessions per child. In contrast to private practices, the center
administers a Home Instruction Program for caregivers/parents, imparting training and
providing resources to enable them to independently care for their children. The center
diligently tracks the progress of these families through periodic reports.
Q.3. How does your center foster collaboration and meaningful engagement with
parents and families to support the learning and holistic development of the
children in your care?
“(Here in Kabahagi Center) Like what I mentioned, we want to empower our CWDs,
their parents and families, as well as their communities. In 2019, Kabahagi Parents
Advocates Organization (KPAO) was established. This is an organization made up of the
parents and caregivers of our CWDs accredited by the Department of Labor and
Employment and the Security and Exchange Commission as a non-stock and non-profit
organization.
We foster meaningful engagement with them by empowering them and helping them be
(functional and established) parts of society by means of taking spaces in the society,
raising their voices, giving their suggestions to the community through the KPAO.”
Given the center's commitment to holistic client development, the programs extend
beyond the initial ten sessions and are continually evolving, as emphasized by Sir Gab.
The Knowledgeable Parents Association Officers (KPAO) have become highly
empowered, independently conducting webinars and initiating initiatives such as the
Chikiting Pantry. In this initiative, the community is actively engaged to contribute books
and educational materials for Children with Disabilities (CWDs).
The efficacy of these programs is assessed through progress and accomplishment reports,
regular meetings, and various metrics, with particular emphasis placed on the increasing
membership numbers of parents within the KPAO, considered a pivotal measure of
success.
With these questions, Sir Gab referred the researcher to the front desk where they
clarified that the highest number of CWDs they cater to are those with in the ASD, and
those with ADHD, not so much on differently-abled (physically speaking) children that
require a significant amount of physical therapy sessions.
“No, we don’t have a quota,” Sir Gab also clarifies. “As much as possible nga, as I said
before, we want to cater and attend to ALL children with disabilities to the best of our
abilities.”
“We are actually about to give out hearing aids since our center also has hearing
assessments. So, ‘yung mga batang in-assess na nangangailangan ng hearing aids,
bibigyan natin sila for free. We are procuring fifty (50) hearing aids for them. Also, aside
from that, may binibigay din tayong other assistive devices in partnership with various
organizations and offices. For example, ngayon lang tayo nag-distribute ng eyeglasses
sa ating mga CWDs through the efforts of QC PDAO. Two-hundred (200) people ang
beneficiaries of the center. And then, we also provide here crutches and customized
wheelchairs in partnership with the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial
Medical Center (UERMMMC). We also have God is Able International Foundation, Inc.
that donate these customized wheelchairs to our identified beneficiaries.”
Q.2. How does your center ensure ongoing professional development and training
for staff to effectively address the unique needs of children with special needs?
“With seminars and trainings, yes. We have a training profile of trainings attended by
our staff for professional growth and development... These are trainings conducted by
the city (government). So, through the efforts of the HR Department, specifically the
Strategic Human Resources and Dev’t of the HRMD—they want to professionalize and
equip the QC government employees, including us, with various skills (and)
competencies for us to further our efforts to deliver a world-class and quality pubic
service to every Quezon City citizen.”
Sir Gab opened an Excel file of the said training profile and cited examples of these
trainings such as: Coaching and mentoring for the leaders and top managers, MS
Application for Beginners, Overview of the Philippine Legal Framework as part of the
government system and so on.
“’Yung mga therapists natin, they also attend various trainings. For example, may
training tayo na pinapa-attend sa kanila when it comes to proper handling and use of
customized wheelchair—‘yung sa Wheelchair Management. Para at least, matutugunan
pa natin ‘yung pabago-baging pangangalilangan ng ating mga CWDs. They also attend
international trainings which sometimes they shoulder financially.”
“One of the most significant challenges is the hesitations of our parents (and caregivers)
and the knowledge they possess about our programs. Hindi natin masasabi na 100% that
the QC residence knows about the programs and services of our center. Because, it’s not
that popular pa and it’s not as extensive as what we are envisioning. Kaya ‘yung mga
efforts natin para matugunan ‘yon, such as ‘yung pag-push through that every district
would have a Kabahagi Center (as Mayor Joy wants)—‘yun ‘yung gusto natin ma-abot.
Although the center guns to service as much as they can, it is still a factor to consider
that the level of awareness of the community is not as high as they want it to be. Private
practice services and assessment is apparently not as affordable as it should be to
families below or barely above the poverty line. To address this, they make use of social
media, their Facebook page, community profiling, and community outreach program to
raise the awareness level of the community. Sir Gab also mentioned that there is already
an ongoing QC Kabahagi project in District VI, and an approved proposal in District V.
E. PROJECT JUSTIFICATION
Q.1. Has there been an observable rise in the number of children being enrolled
in your center lately? Does this ever happen at all? When?
Since the center is the only established government/public service ILRC in QC, they
cater to a significant number of children with different cases on a daily basis. Sir Gab
opened a slide containing the intake trend of the center from 2021-2023.
Figure 4.1. Child Intake Trend from Sir Gabriel Tugbo, QC Kabahagi Center.
Q.3. What facilities would you like to see in the proposal? How would this benefit
the community and its target users?
“Kami, ang lagi naming nai-envision na facility is that it is child-friendly and a PWD-
accessible facility. Meaning it’s pleasing to the eyes of the kids… where they feel like
they belong, they can play—and maramdaman nilang accessible sakanila based on
accessibility provisions and law. Also, ‘yung mga architectural needs when it comes to
provision for the facility to be qualified as a PWD-friendly facility.”
F. CLOSING
Q.1. Is there anything else you would like to share, or any additional comments
or insights that you believe would be valuable for our study?
Q.2. What would be your recommendations for researchers, policymakers, and
educators seeking to enhance inclusive education and support for children with
special needs in Quezon City?
“Personally, masaya ako na may nagvi-venture into this advocacy even at a very young age.
Because this advocacy became close to my heart.”
It is apparent that the heart of the center’s mission has been caught by its staff and service
providers. It is also recommended by Sir Gab, on behalf of the QC Kabahagi Center, to
explore and engage with the sector to further understand the essence of this service as well as
actively consult with professionals to guarantee the success and comprehensiveness of future
studies that may eventually contribute to the improvement of the sector’s services.
“SSDD is the local social welfare office of Quezon City. So, mayroon kaming PWD
Welfare Program wherein ang isa sa mga programs and services naming is case
management for abused, neglected, and abandoned PWDs. ‘Pag sinabi nating case
management… kailangan nila ng protective custody. So we’re trying to help the family
or mga PWD to identify institutions to aid those abandoned by their families—‘yon,
hinahanapan naming ng paraan to find a shelter… kung kailangan ng medical needs, we
try to help the person through medical assistance—para matulungan sila.”
“Siyempre, for PWDs, isa pa sa mga binibigay naming is assistive devices. PDAO has
provision of assistive devices. Kung hindi man kakayanin ng PDAO, we refer the people
to other agencies through a Referral System to DSWD, sa Office of the Vice President na
nagbibigay ng tulong sa mga PWDs. We also have the Educational Assistance Program
para sa mga children with disabilities… For this year, we have 1000 beneficiaries of the
EAP.” Ma’am Mila also tells the researcher about the efficiency of SSDD in the
registration to this program through online application and the assistance of their office if
the community or the people are unable to do so online.
The direction of this dialogue mainly leans towards the topic of abandonment cases handled
by the SSDD. “One of the biggest challenges we face is (the lack of specialized) temporary
shelters… para sa mga PWDs.” Since SSDD handles cases beyond the category of CSNs
(specific to IDs and LDs), Ma’am Mila emphasizes that there is difficulty in
accommodating the unique needs of their beneficiaries due to the diversity of disabilities.
She indicates that it is most difficult to identify institutions for help and support for
abandoned indigents who are adults—regardless of their disability (mental, physical,
neurological, etc.) due to the lack of laws and provisions regarding the protection of
abandoned adult PWDs. Ma’am Mila elaborated on this matter by informing the researcher
of example cases her office has taken.
As for CSNs or children in general, Ma’am Mila clarifies, upon inquiry of the researcher,
the biggest challenge they face is the lack of specialized facilities to both rehabilitate and
house this demographic. Despite that, SSDD still explores and collaborates with various
NGOs and does their best to meet their needs.
Q.2. What have you observed are the biggest hindrances that families/caretakers of
children with intellectual and learning disabilities face when it comes to acquiring or
seeking support:
a) Support for their Children.
b) Support for themselves.
“Hindi mahirap maka-hanap at maka-kuha ng services regarding sa PWD kasi it’s a plan
ni Mayor na mabigyan ang mga PWD. Actually, ang problema nila talaga is ang
kanilang attitude—‘yung parang burnout nila sa pag-alaga sa kanilang… (family
members that are CSNs and PWDs).” Evidently, families experiencing financial
constraints and unable to afford private services are opting to relinquish their children to
shelters facilitated by the Social Services and Development Department (SSDD). This
decision is driven by the aspiration to alleviate their burdens, secure employment, and
envisage a fresh start with their children once financial stability is achieved. Supporting
C. PROJECT JUSTIFICATION
Q.1. What is your say regarding the adequacy of existing ILRCs in Quezon City?
a) Facility-wise?
b) Program-wise?
c) Professional-client ratio wise?
“As I said, wala nga. Mayroon kaming Kabahagi Center, but it is more on therapy… There
is no sufficient… regarding sa LGU, ha. Mayroon din naman tayo sa private sector, pero
hindi pa rin sufficient.” Through further inquiry of the researcher, Ma’am Mila states that
private practice institutions have very limited spaces and operate usually on slot-basis—not
being able to cater to much of the population of PWDs—especially those who cannot afford
these services and those without support from their own families.
“When it comes to program, it’s also insufficient… Nabibigyan sila ng services, lalo sa
medical. Pero in terms of, ‘yung, specializations depende sa disorder/disability nila.
Shelters kasi, they also have specializations… Mabibigyan talaga sila ng atensyon.”
Throughout the interview, Ma’am Mila implies that it is crucial to provide these services in
the form of temporary shelters and centers to cater to the needs of CSN/PWD constituents.
“For PWD temporary shelters, sa District II… Ang alam ko ang target is every district
magkaroon, so ayon.” Ma’am Mila does not give a specific district for an ILRC for CSNs in
Quezon City but states that any district, if it is efficient and meets the target to build a
Kabahagi Center in each district, then it is permissible and ideal.
D. CLOSING
Q.1. Is there any additional information, insights, or recommendations you would like to
share regarding the proposed center or the broader landscape of inclusive education in
Quezon City?
Q.2. What are your insights for future researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders of
inclusive education and service provision in Quezon City?
Ma’am Mila shares her vision for the inclusive services and care landscape for Quezon City.
She emphasizes the importance of mental health for PWDs regardless of age, and that it should
also be given top priority. “As for CSNs… Iyon talaga, temporary shelter(s). Iyon ang kailangan
natin.” Although the office provides education and programs for the inclusion of PWDs and
their integration to society, Ma’am Mila claims and observes that it may only be a band aid
solution.
She also encourages the researcher to delve and to share the information this study and future
studies would have acquired to aid in the government’s service to PWDs and CSNs.
For this section, Sir Anthony was able to summarize and relate the role of PDAO in the
field of inclusive care and education by also enumerating the programs and initiatives
done and offered by QC PDAO.
“Our office is responsible for providing programs and necessary support for (but not
limited to) CSNs to help with their development and eventually for mainstreaming
them.” He continued to cite examples of their service, including their partnerships with
hospitals like Philippine Children’s Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center,
and National Children’s Hospital in order to provide neurodevelopmental assessment for
children who are considered indigent in the city.
“This program aims to have an overview on the disabilities of the children as well as
focus on prevention and rehabilitation. Kung prevention, the neurological pediatrician
gives their assessment and recommendations whether the child is in need of therapy
(speech, physical, occupational, etc.). This also entails an objective to (give) the parents
knowledge on how to deal with the children.” With this, he proceeds to reference QC
Kabahagi Center for Children with Disabilities in Batasan Hills who have their own
trainings and Home Instruction programs aside from these 10 session therapies to meet
that objective, and who have their Community Based Rehabilitation Program.
With this, the direction of the dialogue went straight into the observed challenges Sir
Anthony has observed regarding these endeavors the local government are undertaking.
“We hope that the government can provide the necessary actions and programs that
could really meet (the expectations of) Inclusive Education.” Sir Anthony pointed out
that one of DepEd’s Memoranda or Orders is to mainstream CSNs into regular classes
and classroom settings. However, he also emphasizes that there is most likely a lack in
specialized services, facilities, training for personnel (like teachers in regular public and
private schools), and therefore the right preparation for the proper implementation of
these laws and documents. In addition to this, Sir Anthony states that PDAO is a member
of the Committee for Children’s Development of QC. “Ang sinasabi naming sa mga
meetings nito bilang agency for CSNs is that… ‘yung sana hindi biglaan—dapat may
transition… One is that, is the facility ready? The faculty or personnel—are they enough
for such a program? Kaya ba ng mga public school to add more facilities and faculty—
the readiness of the community to ensure na hindi mabu-bully itong mga batang ito?”
Sir Anthony strengthens these inquiries by also sharing some of his experiences as a
child with special needs who went to a specialized or SpEd facility that could actively
cater to his needs regarding his development, education, and protection versus a regular
classroom setting that could do otherwise.
“The government is optimistic naman na maaabot and magagawa… Rather than get
stuck in a situation na hiwalay sila (CWDs).”
One other challenge that Sir Anthony identified is the lack of empowerment for the
families of the CSN and the inaccessibility of the already existing establishments in terms
of distance and commute.
The researcher followed up on Sir Anthony’s mention of PCMC, QMMC, and NCH
regarding their partnership with the city government. “The PCMC partnership was
conceived through a memorandum of agreement that was approved by the City Council for
funding. Funding, because we pay Php2,500.00 per client whenever they are referred to
PCMC for medical assessment… On the other hand, QMMC and NCH(‘s partnership with
us) was conceived through dialogue and coordination with them. Hindi kami nagkaroon ng
MOA kasi we just requested to be accommodated from the budget na rin ng QC government
(for inclusive services) na Php 50M.” PDAO has not ceased to explore more opportunities
and partnerships with related organizations and institutions. They are also in partnership
with Community Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Facilitators - Community Based
Rehabilitation (CPREF-CBR) as a back up center for when caregivers are not able to wait
for an appointment booking with QC Kabahagi Center in Batasan Hills. With their
partnership, CPREF is able to provide these services at a discounted price, provided that
there is a referral from QC PDAO.
“Dito mayroon tayong… coordination with parents’ organizations by also helping them to
create their organizations. One of the thrusts of PDAO kasi is to empower and capacitate
the families of these CWDs through its organization and federation.” PDAO encourages the
community to create these organizations, much like KPAO, so it is easier to reach out and
coordinate with them. “Participative ang program.” Sir Anthnoy emphasized that one of
the objectives of this thrust is to foster participation and active collaboration between both
sides—the community and the government. According to this dialogue with Sir Anthony, it
is apparent that willingness (of the parents/community) is paramount if the city wants to be
effective in advocating for the rights of CSNs in the city. “PDAO also conducts disability
awareness and sensitivity trainings in communities para malaman ng community kung ano
ang mga batas at karapatan ng mga taong may kapansanan, as wel as kung an oba ang
mga programang p’wede nila kalakuhan.” Their office does its part, according to Sir
Anthony. He also mentions that Filipino Sigh Language implementation is slowly being
realized with other stakeholders and in the commercial industry, further encouraging the
integration of PWDs in society.
Q.3. With reference to your Referral Systems, which agencies or organizations do you
refer the citizens to for financial assistance?
Sir Anthony was already able to answer this in the previous section.
C. PROJECT JUSTIFICATION
Q.1. What is your say regarding the adequacy of existing ILRCs in Quezon City?
a) Facility-wise?
b) Program-wise?
c) Professional-client ratio wise?
Q.2. Given your position in PDAO, do you think it would be ideal to establish another
government-owned ILRC in Quezon City as mandated by Quezon City Ordinance No.
SP-2617, S-2017, as amended by City Ordinance No. SP-2718, S-2018 (An Ordinance
Institutionalizing A Comprehensive Program for Children with Disabilities (CWDs),
Thereby Establishing A Center and Providing Funds Thereof and for Other Purposes)?
“That is also a thrust of PDAO where were are in the process of encouraging congressmen in
other districts na mag-isip din na magkaroon ng mga center sa kani-kanilang districts. Kasi
this will provide easier access to facilities sa communities kasi nga, puno na rin ang mga
ospital. Financial-wise, hindi rin makakapag-avail (ang mga tao) dahil may kamahalan ang
mga private centers.” Since that is one of the thrusts of PDAO, as said by Sir Anthony, it
would definitely be ideal to establish a proposed center in one of the other districts of Quezon
City.
Q.5. What recommendations do you have for the center to ensure it aligns with the city's
goals for inclusive education and the rights of children with disabilities?
“In relation ko sa hamon ko sa’yo bilang iskolar ng bayan, makita ‘yung at magkaroon ng study
na magri-reflect ng rights (of CWDs) in reality. Dapat ma-realize, ma-obserbahan ng mga tao.
Kasi face it, marami tayong batas. But these laws are not felt—kulang pa ng ngipin. So as a
researcher, how can you design recommendations or policies to policymakers, provide information
(that) you conducted na mas makakapag-palalim at makapagpapa-ramdam sa kalagahan ng mga
batas na ito sa realidad.”
Truly, the existence of these laws are apparent, but the implementation and reflection of these
policies are unseen and not felt by the respective communities. In relation to Chapter 1, one of this
study’s objectives is to expose the gap between our country’s laws for inclusivity and its intended
beneficiaries.
In the next section of this chapter, the researcher intends to supplement the advocacies of these key
individuals who have given their valuable opinions to support the purpose of this study.
The survey has accumulated the responses needed as dictated by Slovin’s Formula. This survey
was able to meet 71/71 responses.
A. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Q.1. What are some of the characteristics that you have observed in your child? (Select
all that apply)
Below Average IQ
Difficulty Reading, Seeing
8%0% 11% Difficulty Writing
9% Difficulty Communicating
7%
Difficulty Connecting with People
6%
9% Less than average Fine Motor Skills
Attention Deficit behavior
11%
10% Difficulty in Regulating Emotions
Over-Clinginess
11% 10% Clumsy/Lack of Safety Awareness
10%
Susceptible to Overstimulation
Others
Each choice presented in the graph is to gauge what king of disability the child possesses
through their characteristics whether or not they are diagnosed or suspected to have it since
the researcher also considers that not all respondents are able to afford diagnostic services.
Almost all boxes were checked by the responses.
ADHD
ASD
7% 10%
ADHD and ASD
17% 10% Cerebral Palsy (Mild)
The results above show that the most dominant disability that is diagnosed among the
respondents’ children are Severe Cerebral Palsy, an occurrence of both ADHD and ASD, and
Mild Cerebral Palsy. While the study has categorized ASD and ADHD as a learning disorder,
the researcher also understands that in foreign models, a part of the spectrum in ADHD and
ASD are considered as IDs given the characteristics, they possess like inability to take care of
themselves, displayed below average IQ and poor coping skills.
4%
21% Under 5 years of age
18%
5-10 years old
3%
1%
Teacher Cousin
24%
17%
District I Reside In
4%
20%
District I District II District III
31%
15%
District IV District V District VI
3%
27%
Hands-On Care
24%
Yes No Somewhat
5%
71%
Q.1.
Q.2.
Q.3.
Q.4.
Q.5.
Q.6.
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00% 80.00% 90.00% 100.00%
Figure 5.7. Daily Challenges Faced by Caregivers When Caring for their Child
This is to support the researcher in gauging how hands-on the respondents are with caring
for their child with reference to the challenges of their care. It shows that much of the
respondents mainly have difficulty in handling emotional outbursts and tantrums than any
other, followed by the basic task of maintaining personal hygiene. This could mean that the
children, because of their disability, are rendered unable (be it physical or because of their
mental age) to do simple tasks by themselves and therefore need to be coached in a different
approach.
Q.8. How do you manage and support your child's behavior and emotional well-being
when they face difficulties or frustration? (Select all that apply):
Discipline
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00% 80.00% 90.00% 100.00%
Percentage of 71 Respondents
Q.9. What are the most significant challenges you've faced as a caregiver of a child with
intellectual disabilities? (Select all that apply)
Emotional/Mental Stress
Financial Constraints
Social Isolation
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00%
Percentage of 71 Respondents
This question’s purpose was to gauge the caregiver’s personal perspective independent of
their child when it comes to being the caregiver. The results show that financial constraints
are almost at par with emotional and mental stress, which could be given a solution to by
being provided the proper care and prioritization they also need as people who are heavily
involved with their children’s circumstances.
Stigma or discrimination
Financial Constraints
Percentage of 71 Respondents
The main problem that caregivers encounter when seeking for assistance in caring for their
children is, again, financial constraints. Providing for a child with special needs is indeed
expensive and not all families in Quezon City are able to afford these services. This is
followed by inaccessibility, which could be caused by the physical limitations of the
patient/child, or the proximity of the center to the household of the caregiver and child.
Q.11. I have enrolled my child into a intellectual center for children with special needs.
42%
Yes No
58%
Stigma
Inaccessibility
Poverty/Financial constraints
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00%
Figure 5.12. Caregivers’ Reasons for Not Enrolling Their Children at an ILRC.
As for the 30 respondents that did not enroll their children into ILRCs, their main reasons
are, once again, financial inability to afford those services, and the limitations of the present
establishments that accept special children into their care. With reference to Tables 1.6 and
1.7, there are some districts whose public services for CSNs are public schools with very
limited programs that cater to such needs as that of children with IDs. While there are
bigger numbers in the presence of private centers in the city, the reason for the large number
of children not being able to enroll into a center will go back to the concept of poverty.
Figure 5.13. ILRCs the 41 Respondents Have Enrolled Their Children At.
Apparently, these centers are the most common among the 41 respondents that have
enrolled their children into centers. So, this could also entail that these centers are the most
popular and most known in their respective districts. QC Kabahagi Center is the most
popular out of all the centers mentioned and it is most likely because it is the only
established public-owned ILRC in the city.
24%
Yes No
76%
Q.15. How do you rate the level of educational support available for your child with
learning disabilities at the center they are enrolled in?
10%
Not Enrolled/I am unsure
21% Insufficient
42%
Adequate
Exceptional
27%
Figure 5.15. Level of Educational Sufficiency of the ILRC the Respondents Enrolled their Children In.
Q.16. What services for parents/caregivers of children with special needs are provided in
the center? (Select all that apply)
Educational Resources
Financial Support
Preofessional Therapies
Counselling
Percentage of 71 Respondents
Figure 5.16. Services Provided by the ILRCs the Respondents’ Children Are Enrolled At.
For this item, the researcher focuses on the services that are not provided by the existing
establishments, such as Respite Care Services (that is common in international centers), a
bridge for Financial Support, Parent Support Groups, and Professional Therapies for both
the child and the parent. The results of this question reflect that the caregivers, while they
still prioritize the needs of their children, still need proper government and community
support because of their circumstances.
adequate facilities and equipment needed for health and other wellbeing concerns aside from education.
There should be a hierarchy in services provided by the center (basic care, specialized, etc.)
r is an essential community service to assist families in educating / training children with special needs.
ve a sound policy and program for children with special needs to be productive members of the society.
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Accessible
Specialized Facilities
Financial Assistance
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00% 80.00% 90.00%
Based on the previous questions, the researcher can only conclude that these are the
recommendations the respondents can provide for the proposed ILRC which should
prioritize its accessibility, increase of community support, specialized facilities, and
programs for the caregivers.
ACCOMMODATION
IDs are disabilities usually with manifestations (depending on their severity) that causes an
individual to be rendered unable to perform simple tasks. These disabilities typically last a
lifetime, and thus, without early intervention, can be brought into adulthood and may worsen
in severity over time. These people, who are no longer children, are still cared for by their
families who albeit having the financial capability, may not still be able to acquire the
intricate nature of childcare simply because they are past legal age.
According to some respondents, it would be ideal if there were also centers that cater to these
needs, regardless of the physical age of the patient/individual.
A. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Q.1. What are some of the characteristics you have observed in your child? (Select all
that apply)
Difficulty in self-care.
Susceptible to Overstimulation
The graph enumerates various options aimed at discerning the nature of a child's
disability based on observable characteristics, irrespective of whether the child has
received a formal diagnosis or is merely suspected of having a disability. The researcher
acknowledges the financial constraints that some respondents may face in accessing
diagnostic services. It is noteworthy that nearly all response categories were endorsed by
participants.
ADHD
ASD and Deaf
3% 9%
3%3%
ASD and Visually Impaired
6%
11%
Deaf
9% Mute/Verbally Impaired
11% Dyslexia
Discalculia
3%
Dysgraphia
31%
Combination od Dyslexia, Discalulia, Dysgraphia
I don't know
4%
17%
Under 5 years of age
10%
18%
13%
District I Reside In
11% 8%
4%
Figure 5.23. Districts the Respondents and their CSNs reside in.
Again, the study was only given a short amount of time to complete this survey. Also,
given the limitations indicated earlier in this chapter, the survey was only able to reach
certain parts of the whole city—mainly District II and District IV. Majority of the
respondents reside in District II, followed by District IV, then a tie between VI and V, I,
and lastly, III.
Q.2.
Q.3.
28%
Q.4.
Q.5. Yes No Somewhat
Q.6. 65% 7%
\
\
Others
Behavior Management
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00% 80.00% 90.00%
Q.8. How do you manage and support your child's behavior and emotional well-being,
especially in moments of difficulty or frustration? (Select all that apply)
Others
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00% 80.00% 90.00% 100.00%
Q.9. What are the most significant challenges you've faced as a caregiver of a child with
learning disabilities? (Select all that apply)
Emotional/Mental Stress
Financial Constraints
Social Isolation
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00% 80.00%
Q.10. What are the most significant challenges you've faced as a caregiver of a child with
learning disabilities when seeking support and services? (Select all that apply)
Stigma or discrimination
Financial Constraints
Q.11. I have enrolled my child into a learning center for children with special needs.
41%
Yes No
59%
Figure 5.29. Percentage of Respondents that have enrolled their child in an ILRC or SpEd Center.
Figure 5.30. Reasons for not enrolling their children in SpEd centers or ILRCs.
41% of the respondents have enrolled their children ti ILRCs and therefore have answered
such. Mainly, the reason for the others not enrolling their children are limited specialized
services, financial constraints, inaccessibility, discrimination (that the child could have
experienced in a satellite ILRC within a mainstream school) and internal struggles in the
household.
Since majority of the disabilities recorded by this survey is visual impairment, it only makes
sense for Resources for the Blind in Cubao would get the most enrollees from the
respondents. This is followed by QC Kabahagi Center, then New Era University (SpEd).
Q.14. Are you aware of and have utilized local support groups or organizations for
parents of children with intellectual disabilities?
31%
Yes No
69%
Figure 5.32. Degree of Awareness of Services and Programs for Children with LDs.
Q.15. How do you rate the level of educational support available for your child with
learning disabilities at the center they are enrolled in?
5%
13% Not Enrolled/I am unsure
Insufficient
Adequate
23% 59%
Exceptional
Majority of those who chose to partner with a particular ILRC for their children have
pronounced said center as insufficient. Their insights in the last part of this survey show that
even though there are many private institutions in the city for this purpose, they still are
unable to accommodate much of those families that cannot afford this service. It also shows
that despite satellite ILRCs or SpEd curriculums in public schools being established for a
while, it still is not able to provide as much specialized programs and initiatives as what is
targeted/ideal, hence, being insufficient.
Educational Resources
Financial Support
Preofessional Therapies
Counselling
Figure 5.34. Services Identified by Respondents Provided at the ILRC They Enrolled their CSN in.
Those who did not enroll their children to ILRCs indicated that in this question. The other
half then have recorded that the abovementioned ILRCs do provide these services and
shall therefore also serve as a pattern for the designer when planning the proposal/project.
adequate facilities and equipment needed for health and other wellbeing concerns aside from education.
There should be a hierarchy in services provided by the center (basic care, specialized, etc.)
r is an essential community service to assist families in educating / training children with special needs.
e a sound policy and program for children with special needs to be productive members of the society.
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
As for the respondents that have enrolled their children to existing ILRCs in QC, despite already
being able to acquire these services, they still express their empathy for those otherwise.
Affordability is indeed a concern that takes up space regarding this matter, and it only further
justifies the establishment of a public ILRC in QC.
*Better Mapping
Accessible
Specialized Facilities
Better Affordability
0.00% 10.00% 20.00% 30.00% 40.00% 50.00% 60.00% 70.00% 80.00% 90.00% 100.00%
Figure 5.36. Recommendations of Respondents for the Proposed ILRC in Quezon City.
Drawing upon the preceding inquiries, it can be inferred that respondents recommend the
prioritization of accessibility, enhanced community support, specialized facilities, and
dedicated programs for caregivers in the envisioned Independent Living and Rehabilitation
Center (ILRC).
For this last item, the researcher identified certain themes in the respondents’ answers that
are similar to the insights of the respondents for the IDs Survey but in the perspective of
caregivers whose children have LDs.
4.2 Conclusion
In conclusion, the proposal and establishment of an "Inclusive Learning and Resource Center
Specializing in Intellectual and Learning Disabilities for Children with Special Needs in Quezon
City" are both feasible, imperative, and justifiable. This initiative aligns with the legal framework of
Quezon City, as underscored by the Quezon City Ordinance No. SP-2617, S-2017, amended by City
Ordinance No. SP-2718, S-2018, which institutionalizes a comprehensive program for Children with
Disabilities (CWDs), explicitly endorsing the creation of a center and allocating funds for its
implementation. The resonance between the responses from key representatives interviewed and the
vision of this study further substantiates the necessity and relevance of the proposed center.
Survey results notably underscore the demand for a public/government-owned facility, emphasizing
the need for enhanced accessibility, a challenge that could be effectively addressed by establishing
such centers in each district. Moreover, the identified financial constraints faced by the target
population underscore the imperative for a government-supported facility, rendering it a justifiable
intervention in promoting equitable access to specialized care and resources for children with
intellectual and learning disabilities in Quezon City.
The researcher identified unfilled gaps within the study and recommends the following to future
architecture students whose research would fall in line with this theme so they can eventually come
up with a more holistic and comprehensive design/proposal:
This will also give the study a better understanding on the stand of both private and public
sectors about the current state of inclusivity for CSNs in Quezon City or any locality.
Cross-disciplinary Collaborations
The researcher's approach, while not extensively exploring interdisciplinary aspects, ensures a
comprehensive design perspective by integrating insights from psychology, education, and
healthcare. This collaboration fosters innovative solutions, promoting a user-centric approach
by leveraging expertise from various disciplines.
Overall, these recommendations aim to inspire future researchers to delve deeper into specific
aspects of inclusive education and contribute valuable insights to the field, ultimately enhancing
support for children with special needs in Quezon City, and perhaps the country or an even bigger
scope, through physical design and architecture.
Here is a table representing the Philippine Investment Program Funding 2023-2028 best suited for
the proposal:
PIP CODE PROJECT REGION RDC ENDORSMENT AGENCY INVESTMENT TARGETS TOTAL TRIP
TITLE 2023 2025 2028
2020- Basic Nation- Endorsed Depart- 23,000, 498,752,8 0.00 1,532, YES
07001- Education wide ment of 580,000. 15,576.00 073,372,
000004 Facilities Education 00 576.
00
(BEF) (DepEd)
2020- Textbooks Nation- Yet to be Endorsed Depart- 998,454, 998,454,0 0.00 2,995, NO
07001- and Other wide ment of 000.00 01.00 362,001.
000005 Instruction Education 00
Materials (DepEd)
2020- Human NCR Yet to be endorsed Depart- 1,965,746, 1,965,746, 0.00 7,862, NO
07001- Resource ment of 000.00 000.00 984,000.
000008 Develop- Education 00
Ment For (DepEd)
Personnel In
Schools
And
Learning
Centers
2023- Sustainable NCR Yet to be endorsed Depart- 4,430,322, 9,233,638, 0.00 31,332, NO
20001- Livelihood ment of 000.00 800.00 793,467.
003862 Program Social 00
(SLP) - FY Welfare
2024 and
Develop-
ment
(DSWD)
With a budget allocation of P33.8 billion for the Basic Education Facilities (BEF) Program,
initiatives for constructing and refurbishing educational infrastructure will be carried out. These
efforts encompass the establishment of 7,879 classrooms and technical vocational laboratories,
refurbishment of 10,050 classrooms, acquisition of 21,557 sets of school desks, furniture, and
fixtures, provision of electricity to 432 classrooms, along with the creation of 333 school health
As for the project Textbooks and Other Instructional Materials, the program aims to provide public
schools and learning centers quality text-based learning resources aligned with the K to 12
curriculum and used as primary bases or as a supplement to teaching and learning processes. The
HR and Development program is dedicated to support human resource development and training
programs. More specifically, it aims to make the department responsive to the organizational
needs and manpower requirements by developing appropriate skills and attitudes of its personnel.
This can come as a referral system for teachers and specialists that need support.
Lastly, since this study also aims to address the needs of parents and caregivers to be financially
stable enough to afford the cost of living of a child with a specific condition, to gain help from the
local government, and be supported by their community, the researcher also included the program
Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) - FY 2024 for next year.
b. CITY FUNDING
As per the QC Comprehensive Development Plan 2021-2025, the local government has mandated
the establishment of rehabilitation centers for children with special needs through the Quezon City
Ordinance No. SP-2617, S-2017, as amended by City Ordinance No. SP-2718, S-2018 – An
Ordinance Institutionalizing A Comprehensive Program for Children with Disabilities (CWDs),
Thereby Establishing A Center and Providing Funds Thereof and for Other Purposes. This also
entails the establishment of one per congressional district in the city.
The CDP and CLUP of the city are not complete with the details of the budget allocation for this
specific proposal. However, from the interview with QC Kabahagi Center’s OIC and the advise of
the City Budget Department, it has been made clear that the structural establishment of the first
center under the abovementioned ordinance was funded by the national government, specifically
by the Department of Public Works and Highways through the efforts of Congressman Sonny
Belmonte. Its programs are funded also by the national government annually. However, it was
renovated recently and funded by the Office of the City Mayor under Mayor Joy Belmonte’s
instruction.
Its lot number is registered as RP3-B-3-A-1-B-3-A-2. It is surrounded by multiple health centers like
the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, Philippine Heart Center, Lung Center of the Philippines,
and East Avenue Medical Center. The area is approximately 45 meters above mean sea level. The
zoning of the site falls under the Special Urban Development Zone, which permits all C-3 uses—
including institutional buildings and rehabilitation centers.
The site is owned by MQ Holdings, Inc. and is approximately 54 meters above sea level. The site also
has a mini canal with existing retaining walls that cuts across the lot. MQ Holdings falls under both
the R-2-A Medium Density Residential Subzone and C-1 Minor Commercial Zone. This permits the
establishment of institutional buildings that do not exceed 16 classrooms.
Zoning 5 4 3
The location that is appropriate ILRC
development with compliance with existing
laws, rules, and regulations.
Availability 4 4 4
Planners and architects need to assess whether a
parcel of land is suitable for siting an ILRC.
Accessibility 5 5 4
The site is near an expressway or is adjacent to
a national or main road.
Slope Topography 5 3 4
The site must be relatively flat terrain or within (0.40%) (Left portion is (2.57%)
the buildable sloping terrain with 0-3% 0.81% and right
gradient. portion is 3.25%)
Flooding 5 5 4.5
The site should be free from the dangers of (Low) (Low) (Low-Moderate)
flooding.
Drought 5 5 5
The site should be free from the dangers of site (No threats) (No threats) (No threats)
erosion and landslides.
Sun Orientation 5 5 5
The site should have a full advantage of the
available sun path.
RESOURCES CRITERIA
Public Water System 5 5 5
Access to a sufficient supply of water is (Manila Water) (Manila Water) (Maynilad)
necessary.
Telecommunication Grid 5 5 5
Telecommunication services must be present in
the area.
Pedestrian Access 3 4 5
The site must ensure a safe and convenient
journey for individuals walking to the ILRC.
Traffic Count 4 4 5
Conducted to collect information about the
movement of people and vehicles across specific
points along a given roadway.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMUNITY
Proximity to Terminal 5 5 5
The site should be in close proximity to bus,
jeepney, and/or tricycle terminals.
Approximate Distance:
0-3 Km away - 5
3-6 Km away - 4
6-9 km away - 3
9-12 km away - 2
12-above km away - 1
Proximity to Hotels/Accommodations 5 4 4
The site should be close to any hotels or
accommodations for the visitors.
Approximate Distance:
0-3 Km away - 5
3-6 Km away - 4
6-9 km away - 3
9-12 km away - 2
12 km away - 1
Proximity to Banks 5 5 5
The site should be close to banks for
currency exchange services.
Approximate Distance:
0-3 Km away - 5
3-6 Km away - 4
6-9 km away - 3
9-12 km away - 2
12 km away - 1
Proximity to Restaurants 5 5 5
The site should be close to any restaurant.
Approximate Distance:
0-3 Km away - 5
3-6 Km away - 4
6-9 km away - 3
9-12 km away - 2
O T H E R C O N S I D E R A TI O N S
Olfactory 4 4 5
The smell/odor inside and outside the site must
not be unpleasant.
Aesthetic Value 4 4 4
Sites that have the quality of their surroundings
such as vegetation, topography, and views.
On-Site Feeling 4 3 5
The site will give a tranquil feeling.
Given the criteria and ranking above, the researcher concludes with the following:
Neighborhood Community 50 48 47
Other Considerations 12 11 14
TOTAL 152 148 150
In accordance with the specified criteria, objective ranking, and the amalgamation of scores, the National
Housing Authority Property within the Special Urban Development Zone attains the highest ranking.
According to preliminary studies and echoing the interviews with LGU Representatives and QC Kabahagi
Center, it would be more ideal to establish an ILRC in District IV, to which the site also belongs to.
F i g u r e 4 . 5 . T h e s i t e
Figure 4.6. The site with its surrounding roads and establishments
Owned by the National Housing Authority, the site, boasting an elevation of approximately 45.6
meters above sea level, is categorized under Special Urban Development Zone, which permits all C-3
uses—including institutional buildings and rehabilitation centers.
The site has low susceptibility to floods and little to no threats for soil erosion and landslides. The site
is enveloped by several civic service establishments which is also quite ideal for a proposed ILRC.
The site has a land area of 95,655.00 SQM or 9.5 hectares, which is more than enough for a center for
children with special needs. The site is seated along a main road, so the users will not have any
problems with transportation. In addition to that, the BIR-Agham Bus Terminal is right along the side
of the site.