The City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, continues to strengthen its advocacy for child protection and inclusivity through an Anti-Bullying Awareness Campaign and the “Be Me, Feel Me” Program for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) held at Basilan National High School, November 12. The initiative was spearheaded by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the City Persons with Disability Affairs Office (CPDAO).
The event served as an educational and experiential platform for students to learn about the rights of children and persons with disabilities, emphasizing respect, empathy, and the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment in schools. The campaign also aimed to deepen understanding of the psychological and social impacts of bullying, and the shared responsibility of the community in addressing it.
A key highlight of the program was a comprehensive lecture delivered by Atty. Ruffa Iklaman from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), who discussed laws that safeguard children and PWDs, such as the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 (RA 10627) and Republic Act 9442, which strengthens the rights and privileges of persons with disabilities. Her talk emphasized accountability, compassion, and respect for human dignity, resonating deeply with the participating learners.
To make the advocacy more engaging and impactful, students also took part in the “Be Me, Feel Me” activity—an interactive session that allowed them to personally experience using assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, and blindfolds. This hands-on exercise provided a valuable lesson on the daily challenges faced by PWDs and promoted a deeper sense of empathy, awareness, and inclusion among the youth.
CSWD Officer Nor-Aina Asmara highlighted that such initiatives are integral to the city’s ongoing programs that promote child and PWD welfare, while CPDAO Focal Person Gemma Paculio shared that the activity forms part of the city’s long-term advocacy for a more inclusive and compassionate Isabela City.
The event also coincided with the 2025 National Children’s Month Celebration, reinforcing the city government’s commitment to ensuring the protection and empowerment of all children and vulnerable sectors in the community.
Present during the event were BNHS OIC Principal Dr. Arnel Hajan, SP committee chair on Women, Children, and Family Affairs Councilor Karel Annjaiza Sakkalahul, and PCMS Eszra Mariano from PNP-ICPS. (Words by SJ Asakil, CIO/Photos by KJ Evardo & KY Sencio, IsaTV)
