House names Marian ambassador

MANILA, Philippines - Marian Rivera was named yesterday ambassador for women and children with disabilities during a forum organized by the House of Representatives.

Marian was given the title during the celebration of the Women with Disabilities Day at the House organized by the committees on women and gender equality chaired by Bulacan Rep. Linabelle Ruth Villarica; and on social services chaired by San Jose Del Monte City Rep. Arturo Robes, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) and other agencies.

The actress said the government and the public must not neglect women and children with disabilities and provide them with the support to ensure they have equal opportunities to education, livelihood, health and social activities.

She recalled she wore crutches in the 140 episodes of the fantasy series Darna when she portrayed the role as a crippled teenager Narda. She also recently played the role of a sister of someone who has Down’s syndrome and was a victim of discrimination.

She said a number of women with disabilities have overcome their situation and become successful like Jessica Cox, the armless licensed pilot, and Rosel Ambubuyog, who graduated summa cum laude from Ateneo de Manila despite being blind.

NCDA acting executive director Carmen Zubiaga said support should be institutionalized so that parents will be assured that someone will take care of their children.