AVRC II CELEBRATES 51ST ANNIVERSARY WITH TRAINEES, STAKEHOLDERSAVRC II CELEBRATES 51ST ANNIVERSARY WITH TRAINEES, STAKEHOLDERS
The Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) II of the DSWD Field Office 7 celebrated its 51st founding anniversary on September 30, 2025, in Cebu City, bringing together trainees with disabilities, advocates of the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) sector, and dedicated staff whose contributions have been instrumental to the center’s continued success.
Guided by the theme “51 Years of Rehabilitation and Empowerment, Building Inclusive Futures,” AVRC II remains steadfast in its mission to serve the PWD sector through comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services and skills development programs.
Established in 1974, AVRC II continues to serve as the department’s primary training facility for persons with disabilities, helping them develop their skills and gain access to meaningful employment or entrepreneurial opportunities.
As part of the celebration, the newly elected officers of the AVRC II Alumni Association and the Student Trainees Council Batch 2025-2026 were formally introduced. They took their oath of office, signifying their commitment to uphold their roles and responsibilities within the AVRC II community.
Dr. Jera C. Armendarez, MD, MPH, MDM, AVRC II Training Superintendent, shared that the 51st anniversary follows the center’s successful golden anniversary celebration last year.
"This celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the successes we have achieved for the sector. Looking back on these accomplishments reminds us of what more we can do to uplift the AVRC II community," she said.
Following the success of its 50th anniversary celebration, which focused on strengthening partnerships and expanding opportunities for its trainees, AVRC II continues to build on the gains through sustained collaboration with various organizations and advocates.
Celebrating dedicated partnership
An awards ceremony was held to recognize advocates and partners who have been instrumental in creating opportunities for persons with disabilities who underwent free training at the facility.
Among the 55 partners honored during the celebration was Director Christopher Cudera of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Cebu. Through its Adopt a PWD Trainee advocacy, the YMCA provides free board, lodging, and meals for underprivileged trainees with disabilities who come to Cebu City to undergo training but have limited access to accommodations.
In his message, Director Cudera encouraged other AVRC II partners to extend the same support.
"We have an adopted trainee, and seeing the number of partners gathered here today, I thought, why not encourage everyone to adopt at least one trainee to support? It would be wonderful to help them with AVRC II’s interventions. I hope each of our partners will also do the same," he said.
Alongside the recognition of partners, the AVRC II Alumni Association officers were also commended for their continuous contribution in mentoring and guiding graduates of the center within their respective organizations, where many have found employment.
Assistant Regional Director for Operations Juanito C. Cantero, who represented Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero, delivered the director’s message to the attendees.
"You have made the mission of AVRC II come alive through the years. The rehabilitation and empowerment you bring to the PWD community embody what AVRC II stands for. For over five decades, the center has become a sanctuary of hope for many individuals with disabilities, equipping them with skills, knowledge, and the courage to face the world with confidence and independence. Each story of transformation is at the heart of AVRC II’s service, and that story is worth telling, because you are all part of it,” he said.“You have made the mission of AVRC II come alive through the years. The rehabilitation and empowerment you bring to the PWD community embody what AVRC II stands for. For over five decades, the center has become a sanctuary of hope for many individuals with disabilities, equipping them with skills, knowledge, and the courage to face the world with confidence and independence. Each story of transformation is at the heart of AVRC II’s service, and that story is worth telling, because you are all part of it," he said.
AVRC II staff who demonstrated outstanding dedication and excellence in service delivery were also recognized under the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE).
For the complete list of awardees, visit the Official Facebook Page of the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) II.
