Marking 28 years of dedicated service on September 8, 2026, the Lingap Center for the Mentally Challenged, which is operated by the Davao City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), remains a beacon of compassion and resilience, celebrating nearly three decades of touching lives and uplifting individuals with special needs.
Established in 1998, the center serves as a temporary residential care facility for abandoned and neglected male children with special needs.
Ma. Chona Sally Ann Borras, Center Overseer of Lingap Center said that the center’s mission goes beyond providing services, emphasizing that every child deserves to be valued and empowered for who they are rather than defined by their condition.
“Building inclusion means creating a community where everyone is welcome, respected, valued and given equal opportunities to participate. Ang inclusion dili lamang kay pag abli sa atoang mga purtahan kung dili, pag siguro nga ang matag-usa mubati nga sila kabahin ug adunay kabahin sa atoang komunidad (Building inclusion means creating a community where everyone is welcome, respected, valued and given equal opportunities to participate. Inclusion is not just about opening our doors, but ensuring that everyone feels they are part of and have a place in our community),” she said.
Currently, the center hosts 30 children who receive comprehensive support through psychosocial interventions, therapeutic activities, and practical skills development programs.
Beyond care, the center also actively facilitates the reunion and reintegration of its residents with their families or relatives.
City Mayor Sebastian Duterte lauded the Lingap Center’s enduring role in the city’s social welfare mission, noting that since its establishment, the facility has been a source of love and compassion for male Dabawenyos with special needs.
He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the passionate social workers, healthcare professionals, staff and partner agencies whose commitment sustains the center’s mission.
“This meaningful milestone is a testament to your genuine concern for our general welfare of individuals in special needs. Thank you for continuing to cater and provide for these children with efficient programs and various quality health and medical services. Services that are rooted in our mission to ensure that the people of Davao are empowered, protected and secured,” he said.
“Your serious effort to continuously driving our advocacy of providing children with special needs the proper care they deserve in the city of Davao is truly an example of how Dabawenyos continue to help Dabawenyos,” he added.
The CSWDO continues to call on Dabawenyos to treat these children equally and avoid any forms of discrimination.
Suspected cases of abuse or exploitation may be reported through the CSWDO or through the Kean Gabriel Hotline at 09088184444. CIO
Written by: N. Malasado
Edited by: A. Nawal
Photo by: Davao City Social Welfare and Development Office