Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) Cabugao

In March 2008, the Breaking Barriers for Children program through the Katipunan ng Maykapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI), the Danish Society of Polio and Acci­dent Victims (PTU) funded by the Danish International Development Assistance (DANIDA) was established at the municipality. During its first year of operation, the Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) was located at the Senior Citizens Affairs building beside the Rizal Barangay Hall.

Through Municipal Ordinance 2009-01 entitled “Institutionalizing the Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur including its Operation in the Regular Health and Social Services Programs of the Municipality of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur and Appropriating Funds Thereof”, the facility catered to differently-abled children of Cabugao. At first it was a joint effort and concern between the Local Government Unit and the KAMPI with the latter offering technical support while the LGU financed and gave provisions to the center. In August 2009, the center was turned over totally to the LGU for its operations.

In August 2010, the center was moved to the Cabugao South Central School campus. This is to promote inclusive education wherein children with disabilities could incorporate themselves into a normal educational atmosphere.

As of June 2011, there were a total of 114 beneficiaries with 66 active enrollees from 4 municipalities. 49 come from Cabugao, 7 from San Juan, 8 from Sinait while 2 are from Magsingal. Most of these beneficiaries come from less fortunate families.

The center provides physical rehabilitation to children with disabilities like physiatrist evaluation, physical therapy and occupational therapy. Other services include social rehabilitation and after-care services and counseling.

The care for our children with disabilities is one advocacy the Local Government Unit of Cabugao undertakes very passionately. Easing the pain of these children, even just a little bit, is a primary concern. It clearly shows that compassion reigns in our municipality and our care is inclusive regardless of who we are serving and what struggles they have to undergo in life.