TACLOBAN CITY — Seeking to make public education more inclusive, the local government of Pinabacdao, Samar is moving to establish dedicated classrooms for children with special needs under its Special Needs Education (SNED) program, a first for the municipality.
As part of the initial steps, representatives from the Provincial Engineering Office and developmental pediatrics specialists conducted a site assessment on December 19, 2025, at Parasanon Elementary School and Quintin Quijano Sr. Agricultural School (QQSAS). The visit aimed to ensure that the proposed classrooms meet safety, accessibility, and child-friendly standards for learners with special needs.
Mayor Viannery Mabag said the initiative reflects the municipality’s commitment to recognizing and supporting all children, especially those who require specialized learning environments.
“This is a crucial first step to ensure every child in Pinabacdao is valued and given the opportunity to flourish,” Mabag said.
In preparation for the pilot implementation, 36 children from Pinabacdao underwent neurodevelopmental assessments in Tacloban City in partnership with CogniCare Psychological Center. Those identified with special needs will be enrolled in the municipality’s pilot SNED program.
The LGU has also begun strengthening its teaching force by sending public school teachers to SNED training programs, including Basic Filipino Sign Language, to ensure effective and inclusive instruction.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
