House bill seeks early support for children

MANILA, Philippines – Nanay partylist Representative Florabel “Nanay” Co Yatco has filed House Bill No. 2927 seeking to institutionalize early detection, assessment, and intervention for children with special needs across the country.

Drawing from the everyday struggles of mothers who sense developmental differences in their children, Yatco emphasized the need for accessible, expert-backed support at the barangay level.

Under HB 2927, children will undergo regular screenings in communities, with free assessments provided by developmental pediatricians and specialists through schools and local centers. The bill also calls for customized intervention programs and training for teachers, health workers, and local officials.

Yatco underscored the importance of sustained funding to ensure a nationwide, inclusive approach: “Hindi kayo nag-iisa.”