STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Children are being diagnosed with cognitive, behavioral and learning difficulties with
greater frequency today than in the past, partially due to the refinement of
diagnostic techniques and increased vigilance on the part of the parents,
pediatricians and teaching professionals. If minor problems are diagnosed and
treated early, a child might be able to join his or her typically developing peers in a
traditional classroom setting. Long term, these children who began their educational
careers with a label can become adults who no longer require extra support or
accommodation to participate fully in the adult world of choices and responsibilities.
Because of the level of poverty of many families in the Philippines, the city
government plays a big role in providing care for young children in general. For
example, ahead of other area of jurisdictions, the District has sought to bring Head
Start programs to every qualified child in its jurisdiction. The city understands that a
commitment to education has to begin as early as possible. This commitment
extends to children with special needs to whom the District provides resources by
partnering with agencies and/or public or private sectors.