ACADEMIC performance of pupils and instructional outcomes are determined by the schoolchildren’s quality of health.

Aware of the problem that unhealthy children cannot develop their full potential, the Department of Education (DepEd) will institutionalize the Essential Health Care Program (EHCP) for schoolchildren.

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Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste with fluoride and deworming medicines will be provided for the kids hygiene.

DepEd Order Number 65, Series of 2009 seeks to support school administrators, teaching and non-teaching personnel and the Parents Teachers Associations (PTAs) to establish handwashing and tooth brushing facilities and other improvement in schools that support EHCP.

Meanwhile, to encourage every Filipino citizen to take part in improving the economic and social condition of Persons with Disabilities in the society, the 31st National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) week will be observed on July 17 to 23.

Themed “Tungo sa Katuparan ng Karapatan ng PWDs,” the event also aims to stimulate public awareness and strengthen the involvement of government, non-government organizations and the media on disability issues and concerns.

Activities lined up for the occasion are family day, sports festival, tree planting, medical and dental mission, jobfair, forum, and Paligsahan ng May Kapansanan sa Kasaysayan at Kultura ng Pilipinas which will be held simultaneously in different parts of the country.

The DepEd, a member agency of the governing board, takes part annually in the NDPR week celebration. (Press Release/ASC)