9 Visually-Impaired Now Licensed Therapists

Another set of visually-impaired trainees from the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC II) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office VII (DSWD-7) recently took oath as licensed massage therapists.

The nine therapists passed the licensure examination administered by the Department of Health’s (DOH) Committee of Examiners for Massage Therapy (CEMT).

During the oath taking ceremony, they received certificate of registration, pins, DOH-CEMT ID and PALMT ID as new members of the Philippine Association for License Massage Therapists (PALMT).

“Through our AVRC II, we continuously provide training and review for our visually-impaired trainees so that they can pass the licensure examination,” said Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre.

Presidential Decree (PD) 856, mandates that massage therapists must first acquire a certification issued by the DOH before practicing and applying their skills.

“Considering that some of them did not attend school, it really takes ones determination to finish the course and eventually pass the licensure examination,” Director Macapobre added.

All examiners underwent written, oral and practical tests just like any other regular board takers.The examination is based on the Reference Manual for Massage Therapy made by the CEMT.

It consists of different modules namely; Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology and Pathology, Fundamental Concepts of Massage Therapy, Application and Practice of Massage Therapy.

Most of these licensed therapists are now employed in various visually-impaired spa and wellness organizations like the Helping Hands Organization of Persons with Disability, Inc.

AVRC II has been at the forefront of providing human resource development to PWDs in the Visayas region through various skills enhancement program.

Aside from Massage Therapy, AVRC II also provides other courses like Electronic Motor Repair, Computer Electronics, Basic Sewing, Furniture and Cabinet Making, Commercial Cooking and Cosmetology.