LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — In recognition of their continued work to promote the rights of children to survival, development, protection and participation, five villages here were recognized as the town’s most Child-Friendly Barangays.
The awardees are: Barangays Ambiong, first place; Alno, second; Alapang, third; Lubas, fourth; and Tawang, fifth place.
Mayor Romeo Salda on Wednesday said the search for the Child-Friendly Barangays is part of the Children’s Month celebration every December.
It is in consonance with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Memorandum Circular No. 2002-121 mandating the creation of council in the city, municipality and barangay levels for the protection of children. This is also to ensure that the Child Welfare Act is fully implemented down to the grassroots.
The theme of this year’s National Children’s Month is “Bata Iligtas sa Droga.”
Barangay Ambiong has retained its status for two consecutive years as champion in the search for the most child-friendly barangay of La Trinidad.
Ambiong village chief Teddy Quintos said activities like Information Education Campaign on child’s basic rights and needs were institutionalized to make their citizenry aware. There are other activities related to children’s protection against dangerous drugs.
“We believe that our children are our future. That’s why we are trying our best to come up with programs to protect our children and their future,” Quintos said.
The winning barangays received the following cash prizes: PHP75,000 for the first place; PHP55,000 for second; PHP55,000 for third; PHP45,000 for fourth; and PHP35,000 for fifth place. They also received a plaque and certificate of appreciation.
Special awards for “Best barangay with the most packaged and innovative programs” were also given to Pico and Lubas villages.
Salda said they acknowledge all the efforts and programs of work of the barangays as he committed the municipal government’s financial support for activities aimed at ensuring the welfare of children.
“I’m encouraging all our barangay officials and other stakeholders to do their best, to protect our children especially from dangerous drugs because they are our future. Doing this, we can build a good community and ensure better future for our children and our country,” the mayor said. (PNA)
