The Gabay (Guide) project, an initiative led by Resources for the Blind, Inc. (RBI) with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is committed to strengthening inclusive education for Blind, Deaf, and Deafblind children in the Philippines. Operating across Batangas, Sorsogon, and Maasin/Southern Leyte, the project aims to enhance access to quality education through early identification, improved educational services, development of reading skills, and supportive policy environments. The first year (July 2019 - June 2020) focused on establishing foundational activities aligned with the project’s three Intermediate Results (IRs).

Summary of GABAY (Guide)

Year 1 Annual Performance Report

(July 2019 - June 2020)

Key Accomplishments and Challenges

Year 1 saw significant progress, including the development of essential training modules and advocacy materials, training for Community Health Workers (CHWs) on vision and hearing screening, and the piloting and implementation of the Early Grade Reading Assessment (EGRA) baseline for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing learners. Capacity-building activities reached educators and education administrators/officials. Key challenges emerged due to external factors like the Taal Volcano eruption and the global COVID-19 pandemic, leading to necessary postponements and adaptations of planned activities, particularly shifting some training modes to distance learning.

The RBI Gabay Team effectively managed all facets of project implementation, including stakeholder coordination, resource management, training delivery, and data collection. Their collective expertise and adaptability were essential in ensuring project interventions were relevant and impactful for children with sensorial disabilities and their communities.

Furthermore, the team's dedication and collective expertise were central to the project's success. Responsible for all aspects from partner coordination and procurement to training delivery and assessment, their ability to adapt to challenging circumstances and ensure relevant interventions on the ground was crucial in driving progress towards inclusive education objectives.

In conclusion, Year 1 laid essential groundwork for the Gabay project, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. The leadership and operational capacity provided by the RBI team, including named staff members like Dr. Quijano, Mr.Miguel, and Ms. Payo in their respective roles, were fundamental to these achievements and vital for the continued success of the project.