The City Government of Isabela, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office, gathered child representatives, development workers, schools, and partner stakeholders for the 4th Children’s Month Summit on November 19 at the Isabela City Civic and Cultural Center. This year’s celebration carried the theme “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasán: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban,” emphasizing the city’s strengthened commitment to safeguarding children from online sexual abuse, exploitation, and other forms of maltreatment.
CSWDO Head Nor-Aina Asmara delivered the welcome remarks, highlighting the city’s sustained initiatives to uplift children and ensure a safe and nurturing environment for their development. LCPC Child Representative Anofa Gwyn Resueno led the recitation of the Panatang Makabata, reaffirming the pledge to uphold children’s rights.
In his State of the Children’s Report, Vice Mayor Ar-Jhemar Ajibon representing Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, highlighted Isabela City’s efforts to ensure every child is safe, healthy, and supported. He reported achievements such as passing the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance, strengthening health and nutrition programs, expanding child-friendly spaces, and providing educational and welfare support to at-risk children. The Vice Mayor emphasized advocacy against abuse, bullying, and child marriage, and called on the community to actively protect children’s rights, affirming that children are the heart and future of Isabela City.
Councilor Karel Annjaiza Sakkalahul, represented by SK Federation President Naila Belleng, delivered a message of support, reiterating the city government’s strong advocacy for child protection and the collective responsibility of the community in championing children’s rights.
The celebration also honored retired Child Development Workers for their years of service and dedication. Cash incentives were awarded to barangays that passed both the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) and VAWC assessments during the Functionality Assessment of the Seal of Good Local Governance Audit (SGLGA) for Barangays. The following barangays each received P10,000 for passing both assessments: Baluno, Begang, Binuangan, Busay, Cabunbata, Carbon, Eastside, Isabela Proper, Dona Ramona, Kaumpurnah Zone I, II, and III, La Piedad, Lampinigan, Lumbang, Makiri, Marketsite, Menzi, Panigayan, Sta. Cruz, Sumagdang, Tabiawan, and Timpul.
Meanwhile, barangays Calvario, Lukbuton, Maligue, San Rafael, Sunrise, and Tabuk received P5,000 for passing the BCPC assessment, while Kapatagan Grande, Kumalarang, Marang-Marang, Panunsulan, Kapayawan, and Masula each received P5,000 for passing the VAWC Desk assessment. This recognition acknowledged their compliance with child protection standards. The city also presented plaques of appreciation to judges and participating schools for their contributions to the success of the summit.
As a highlight, the summit showcased the talents and creativity of participating schools through the Sabayang Pagbigkas Contest and the Classical Dance Contest. These performances emphasized the importance of arts, expression, and youth participation in civic activities.
Contest winners for the Sabayang Pagbigkas competition were announced, with Isabela East Central Elementary School earning the championship title. Geras Integrated School secured first place, followed by Kaumpurnah Elementary School in second place, and ICEPS in third place.
In the Classical Dance Contest, Panunsulan Elementary School emerged as champion, with Latuan Elementary School taking first place and Kawa-Kawa Elementary School placing second. Consolation recognitions were given to Look Jambangan Elementary School, Begang Elementary School, and Tabiawan Elementary School for their commendable performances.
The 4th Children’s Month Summit reflects the City Government of Isabela’s unwavering commitment to creating a community where every child is protected, empowered, and provided with opportunities to thrive. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by C. Digon & M. Santos, CIO)
