Disability is not Inability

Lezo, Aklan- In a quiet barangay in Poblacion, Lezo, lived a simple couple named Ma. Luisa and Adamson Silverio. Ma. Luisa was blind in one eye, while Adamson lived with epilepsy. Despite their disabilities, the couple faced life’s challenges with determination and a strong desire to live with purpose.

Before the pandemic, the couple managed a small ampaw (sweet rice puff) business. Every morning, the sweet aroma of sugar and toasted rice filled their home as they worked side by side, laughing and helping one another. Their ampaw became a local favorite because it’s sweet, crunchy, and made with love. The income was not big, but it was enough to live comfortably and send their daughter to study in college.

Then the pandemic came. Everything stopped: no orders, no customers, no income. Their savings slowly ran out as they used it to buy food and medicines. The once joyful sound of their little kitchen went silent. There were days when Ma. Luisa would look at their empty jars of rice and sugar and whisper, “Kaya pa man ra.” (We can still make it.)

Despite the hardships, the couple never lost hope.

One day, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) arrived in their community to introduce the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), a program designed to help families, especially those in need, start or rebuild their livelihoods. When Adamson learned about the opportunity, they immediately joined and shared their story. A few weeks later, they received good news: they were selected as beneficiaries and granted ₱15,000 in livelihood assistance.

To others, it may have seemed like a small amount, but for Ma. Luisa and Adamson, it was a lifeline, a chance to rise again. They used the assistance to purchase ingredients for their ampaw business. Slowly, their kitchen became lively once more. The familiar scent of caramel returned, along with their smiles. Customers started ordering again, and before long, their business became even stronger than before.

Today, their ampaws reach nearby towns and even Manila. They are earning steadily, and most importantly, they can continue supporting their daughter’s education.

During an interview with an SLP field staff member, the couple spoke softly but proudly:
“We are truly thankful to DSWD for giving us this opportunity. Because of the Sustainable Livelihood Program, we were able to start again. Despite our disabilities, we proved that we can still work hard and succeed.”

Their story is a reminder that disabilities are not barriers but simply part of life’s challenges. What truly matters is courage, perseverance, and the support of people who care.

Through SLP, Ma. Luisa and Adamson were able not only to rebuild their business, but also to restore their hope, confidence, and dreams. Today, they continue sharing their story to inspire others, proving that disability is never an inability./cdf/Jasmen Ginoy

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