CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The provincial government of Pampanga through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) joined in the celebration of Children’s Month this November.
As part of the celebration, the PSWDO and the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children (PCPC) conducted the Children’s Congress yesterday with the theme, “Bata, Iligtas sa Droga” held at the Trade Hall of SM Pampanga.
Day care children from across the province showcased their talents and creativity in the solo Singing, Poem Reciting, Draw and Color and Calisthenics competitions.
Jhillian Yxzhel Enriquez from the municipality of Sta. Rita emerged as the winner in the solo singing; Akisha Micah Carlos from San Luis in poem recital; Nicolas Eric Hendrik Neitz from Candaba in draw and color; and day care children from Sta. Rita won in the Calisthenics competition.
According to PSWD Officer Elizabeth Baybayan, aside from showcasing the talents and creativity of the children, the conduct of the Children’s Congress also aims to promote and protect their rights.
Baybayan added that the provincial government headed by Gov. Lilia ‘Nanay’ Pineda has always been supportive of the welfare of children and emphasized the ratification of the Provincial Children’s Code in 2012 leading to the creation of the Child Abuse and Prevention Network (CAPIN) and the establishment of the Child Protection Units in the 11 district and provincial hospitals to ensure the protection and rights of the children.
It can be noted that Pampanga was recognized as one of the child-friendly provinces in the country for its programs and services for the welfare of children.
During the event, Board Members Cherry Manalo, Jun Canlas, Benny Jocson and Pol Balingit lauded the efforts of the child development workers, whom they described as unsung heroes, in molding the intellectual, emotional and physical well-being of the children.
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photos by Jun Jaso
