Together in Mission: PSOD, DLS-CSB sign MOU on education and rare disease awareness

SAN JUAN CITY – Last March 28, 2019, representatives from the Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders (PSOD), De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), rare disease advocates, patients and families gathered for the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing event between PSOD and DLS-CSB at Club Filipino, Greenhills, San Juan City.

The two MOUs that formalized the PSOD and DLS-CSB partnership covered the promotion of public awareness on rare diseases, and the establishment of the “I am Rare” scholarship fund. Both will focus on initiatives that aim to improve and sustain the quality of life of patients and their families. During the event, PSOD was represented by PSOD President Mrs. Cynthia Magdaraog, Founding Chairperson Dr. Carmencita Padilla and patient-advocate Mr. Juan Benedicto Magdaraog. Meanwhile, Bro. Dennis Magbanua (DLS-CSB President), Mr. Robin Serrano (VP for Advancement), Mr. Neil Parinas (VP for Lasallian Mission and Student Life) and Mr. Terence Tiu (Director of DLS-CSB School for Professional and Continuing Education) signed on behalf of the higher education institution.

The MOU signing event also marked the launch of the scholarship fund initiated by Mr. Juan Magdaraog, a DLS-CSB Industrial Design alumnus and Pompe disease patient. According to Magdaraog, “the scholarship fund aims to help send a person with rare disease or their immediate family member to study” in DLS-CSB. In a Facebook post, he noted how he valued education and how completing his degree made a difference despite his condition. He also mentioned that the opportunity to study might be a small contribution only, but it can last a lifetime, open doors for possibilities, and give the chance to lead better lives.

“Living with a disability and a rare disease is hard. But it’s still possible to lead a productive life given the right tools. I can barely move my hands but because I got the education I needed I’m still able to contribute to society” said Magdaraog.

In the PSOD-DLS CSB partnership, PSOD will be assessing qualified scholarship recipients who will be sent to college at the DLS CSB School for Professional and Continuing Education (DLS-CSB SPACE). SPACE offers certificate and diploma programs in professional photography, animation, web design and digital illustration. Scholars will also be assisted by DLS-CSB in adapting to the Benildean system thru social coaching.#