The Philippine Foundation for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled, Inc. (PFRDI), through its Apolinario Mabini Awards Committee, honored the University of the Philippines Special Education (SPED) Council as the year’s Volunteer Group Advocate for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWD). President Benigno S. Aquino III presented the award on September 29, 2015 at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace. High Council President Shiela M. Odoño, Members’ Development Committee Head Alexandra Regina D. Martin and UP College of Education Secretary Prof. Vanessa Lusung-Oyzon received the award in behalf of the student organization. Externals Committee Head Maria Beatriz A. Vergara and Secretary General Shaira M. Odoño accompanied them to the occassion. Professor Charo Deefeo-Baquial is their Faculty Adviser.

 

The Award is given to a volunteer group that has supported PWD and/or their families through care/service provision, advocacy, social action, community development, legal action, and related services. The UP SPED Council was recognized for giving its time and talent to educate special children through various innovative ways and means. Through their unconditional service, utmost excellence and unwavering commitment, the leaders and members of the student organization uplift children with special needs and their families via various projects. Aside from these, the UP SPED Council partners with Volunteers for Children for the VFC Laugh. Play, Learn; and with Miriam College for Run for FAN (Fully Abled Nation).

 

The UP College of Education and the Special Education Area are very proud of the accomplishments of UP SPED Council and hope that they would continue their selfless service of empowering the Filipino child with special needs.