Gapo secures nomination for 2011 most child friendly city

Hurdling rigid validation, this city has again secured a spot in the nomination for 2011 National Search for Most Child Friendly City.

The city’s Barangay West Bajac-Bajac, Mabayuan and Barretto were randomly sampled for the stiff inspection by representatives from the regional Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

The scrutiny was divided into four categories relative to the promotion of rights of children which include social standings, health and nutrition, education and skills enhancement, and laws and ordinances passed and funding for children’s programs.

DSWD Regional officer Marites Liwanag said that based on their validation the city has religiously pushed for the promotion of the rights of children and developed support organizations for their welfare especially those Persons with Disability (PWD).

Liwanag also said that facilities for children’s health programs are also present but suggested that more training for health personnel should be conducted to enhance their knowledge in taking care of children.

The validation team also recommended intensified solicitation of funds with the help of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to sustain the programs as well as the implementation of policies and ordinances to protect the rights and welfare of the city’s children.(WLB/AMV PIA 3/OCPAO)