LAGAWE, Ifugao – Recognizing the capabilities of persons with disabilities (PWDs), the provincial government recently conducted the 2008 Provincial Abilympics at the Lagawe Central School open gymnasium here.

According to Esther Bulahao of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, the activity which was participated in by 15 PWDs from all over the province, aims to give this sector of the society excellent work skills, due recognition, and development opportunities through participation in this event.

“This event will also promote recognition of the work of PWDs and their impact on business and society,” Bulahao said.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority regional director Cenon Querubin, who was the guest speaker, inspired the young generation to look for jobs and take part in the development of the country. He noted the fact that the country is losing skilled workers because majority of them are going out of the country.

Gov. Teddy Baguilat Jr. said that the abilympics is the government’s way of showing that PWDs have skills that are worth showing and developing. “We want PWDs in Ifugao to realize from the abilympics that they can learn skills for a living,” he said.