Avelino Tomas, a PWD, shares his story of resilience in an interview
In the cool, crisp air of the bustling City of Pines, one man’s determination paints a powerful picture of perseverance.
Avelino Tomas, a figure whose wheelchair has traveled the streets of Baguio and beyond, is more than just an advocate for persons with disabilities. He is a father whose heart beats for the welfare of his children.
From the very beginning, his path has been marred by prejudice and discrimination. Growing up with a disability, he encountered rejection and judgment at every turn.
“Ayaw nila magpasakay, ang tingin nila sa ‘yo is wala kang ambag, ‘yan ang kaisipan ng komunidad. Hinahayaan ko na lang sila kung ayaw nila, kaya ko naman, mag-wheelchair na lang ako,” he shared.
(They won’t let me ride their vehicles, they look at you as one who does not have a contribution in society, that’s the mindset of the community. I just let it be, if they don’t want to, I can do it on my own, I have my wheelchair.)
One of his most significant accomplishments is the creation of “Tata,” his customized vehicle. It all started when he and his family were living in a remote area, where public transportation was limited. The turning point came when his daughter fell ill, and he found himself in a race against time to get her to the hospital. Unable to rely on others for transportation, Tomas had to act fast.
“Nagkasakit ang anak ko, tumirik ‘yung mata, wala kaming magawa. Malayo ‘yung pupuntahan ko, gabing-gabi, nag-wheelchair ako papunta sa isang bahay na may sasakyan. Mula noon, nag-isip ako, anong magagawa ng mga persons with disabilities sa mga sitwasyong ito?”
(My daughter got sick, her eyes started to roll back and I could not do anything. Everything is far and it is late at night. I got into my wheelchair and asked for help at the nearest house with a car. After that, I said to myself, “What can a person with a disability do in situations like these?”)
Fueled by this experience, Tomas embarked on a journey to find a solution. He traveled to Dagupan, where he stumbled upon a mechanic’s shop. To his surprise, the mechanic, too, was a person with a disability. He transformed an old jeepney into a customized vehicle that could accommodate his needs, with higher foot gears and easy mobility for a person who uses a wheelchair.
“Tata” was born, a name given to the vehicle by his daughters, meaning “tatay” (father). The jeepney is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a symbol of Tomas’s love for his family and his commitment to creating opportunities for others with disabilities.
“Tata” has since become a lifeline, not only for Tomas’s family but for others who share his need for accessible mobility. With “Tata” by his side, Tomas has transformed from a person limited by physical barriers into an empowered individual who is now helping others. What started as a necessity for his own family has evolved into a service for the community, particularly for people with disabilities who need transportation but have no means of access.
Beyond being a hands-on father, Tomas is an active advocate for persons with disabilities in the region. He serves as the president of the PWD Federation in Cordillera and as the chairperson of the Philippine National Federation of PWDs.
Through his leadership, Tomas has become a voice for those often unheard. His personal experience with rejection, coupled with his love for his family, has propelled him to continue fighting for equal rights and opportunities for everyone, regardless of their physical limitations.
His story is one of inspiration. His journey is a testament to resilience, creativity and, most of all, love—love for his children, love for his community and love for the people he serves. [JDP/DEG/Chelsea Mas-PIA-SLU Intern]
