Taguig opens Yakap Center for children with disabilities
Photo courtesy of the Taguig City government
MANILA, Philippines — Children with disabilities in Taguig City now have access to specialized therapy, education, and life skills training with the opening of the Yakap Center for Children with Disabilities in Brgy. Calzada-Tipas.
The four-story facility, launched on February 26, offers pediatric physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and specialized consultations with rehabilitation doctors and developmental pediatricians, according to the Taguig City government.
The center also provides educational programs such as an Early Intervention Program for young children, a Transition Program for older kids, a Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program, a Braille Literacy Program, and a Pre-Vocational Program to help children prepare for independent living and employment.
It is also equipped with facilities to support its beneficiaries, which include the following:
- E-Library and Multimedia Room for accessible education
- Arts & Crafts Room, Music Room, and Dance Studio for creative expression
- Early Intervention and Transition Rooms to support learning and development
- Hydrotherapy and Sensory Rooms for rehabilitation
- Therapy rooms for physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Braille signage on room entrances for accessibility
“We know how difficult their sacrifices are—the time, effort, and expenses for each therapy session and consultation. The Yakap Center is a major step in easing their struggles,” Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano said in Filipino.
Article continues after this advertisementCayetano also emphasized the importance of free and accessible services for families of children with special needs.
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As of February, 265 children have enrolled in the center, receiving support for conditions such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, and speech-language disorders, the local government said.
Beyond medical and educational services, the center also offers a livelihood program through the Equal Grounds Café, located next to the facility, it added.
“The café will allow them to gain work experience as baristas, kitchen staff, and servers, helping them develop job skills, earn a living, and become self-sufficient members of the community,” the local government said.
