Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian reaffirmed Valenzuela City’s commitment to inclusivity as the local government held its first inclusive summit at the Valenzuela City People’s Park.
The summit was attended by government agencies, educators, parents, and advocates to discuss programs for persons with disabilities (PWDs), with focus on education, employment, health, and access to public services.
In his message, Gatchalian said progress should be measured by how well all residents are included in development.
“Ang tunay na progresibong lungsod ay ‘yung walang iniiwan. Sa Valenzuela, malinaw ang ating paninindigan—bawat bata ay may kakayahan, may pangarap, at may lugar sa ating lungsod,” he said.
According to the city’s Public Information Office, the activity followed the blessing and inauguration of the Valenzuela Special Education (ValSPED) Center Extension and the groundbreaking of the Valenzuela Education Center in Barangay Malinta, highlighting the city’s continued investment in inclusive education facilities.
The inauguration was in line with the 10th anniversary of ValSPED.
It also served as a venue to review city programs for learners with special needs and their families.
ValSPED currently serves 1,120 learners with disabilities, supported by physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists under the city’s Education 360 Degree Investment Program.
Gatchalian also said inclusivity in Valenzuela goes beyond the classroom.
Through a city ordinance on inclusive employment, the local government has assisted 285 persons with disabilities through wage and self-employment programs from 2018 to 2025.
Representatives from PhilHealth, the Valenzuela Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the Department of Health (DOH), the Valenzuela City Nutrition Office, and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)–Valenzuela discussed available services and programs for PWDs and their families.
The local government said the summit reflects the city’s efforts to ensure that residents of all abilities are given equal access to opportunities and essential services.
