BAGUIO CITY, July 15 -- The Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled (PHILSPADA) is stepping up its grassroots recruitment program to discover and develop more para-athletes who can represent the country in international competitions.

Speaking during a media briefing marking the 48th National Disability Rights Week on Tuesday, PHILSPADA President Michael Barredo said the organization is working with government agencies, local government units, schools and civic organizations to identify promising athletes, particularly the youth.

"We will continue to do this and eventually reach out to more Filipinos," he said.

He said PHILSPADA is working with the Department of Education to expand para-sports events in school competiti...