Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva reaffirmed Sagay’s commitment to child-centered recovery and long-term development during his State of the Children Address at the National Children’s Month celebration recently in Balay Kauswagan, the city said Dec. 18.
Cueva said the recent impact of Typhoon Tino disrupted the lives of many Sagaynon children, affecting schooling, family stability, and their sense of safety, but stressed that the city ensured that no child was left behind in health, protection, and education.
“Our commitment to the children of Sagay remains stronger than any storm we face,” Cueva stressed.
He said that consistent and compassionate investment in children is a core pillar of his administration, even as the city continues rehabilitation and recovery efforts.
In health and nutrition, the mayor reported that 4,071 children benefited from the city’s supplementary feeding program last school year with full nutritional improvement, while 3,071 preschoolers are currently being served across all barangays.
“These numbers are not just statistics; they represent healthier children growing with dignity,” he said.
Operation Timbang data showed that 98.12 percent of weighed children had normal weight-for-age, and 99.38 percent had normal weight-for-height, results the mayor attributed to sustained early childhood interventions.
Cueva added that 6,612 gallons of fresh milk were distributed to support feeding programs of DepEd, CSWDO, barangays, and partner-agencies.
On education, Cueva highlighted programs that continued despite weather disruptions, including the e-Smile Program that reached over 30,000 learners in mathematics and the Re-Reads that served more than 27,000 children needing reading intervention.
He also cited the Cueva ALS Program, which assisted 657 out-of-school youth and adults, and science and technology initiatives under Droids 21 to prepare learners for 21st-century skills.
The mayor said Sagay allocated P35.5 million under the Special Education Fund for 2025 to support school repairs, utilities, sports development, learning equipment, and the construction of new classrooms in several public schools.
On child protection, Cueva underscored strengthened peace and order initiatives, including Project Eskwela of the Sagay City Police Station, Women and Children Protection Desk programs, and services of the Sagay City Youth Development Center for children at risk and children in conflict with the law.
“We cannot protect children only in classrooms and streets; we must also protect them online,” Cueva said, referring to the city’s intensified response against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children.
Congressman Alfredo Marañon III, in a message delivered by Provincial Board Member Arthur Christopher Marañon, meanwhile, challenged the city to sustain programs anchored on children’s survival, development, protection, and participation rights.
“The responsibility is upon us to ensure that every child has access to healthcare, education, and opportunities to thrive,” Marañon said.
Vice Mayor Narciso Javelosa Jr., whose message was delivered by Councilor Ed Lobaton, said the National Children’s Month celebration reflects government action beyond awareness.
“This advocacy is not just of words, but of concrete actions that protect and nurture our children,” Javelosa said.
Student representative Marianne Talaver accepted the challenge on behalf of the Kabataang Sagaynon, saying that young people are ready to take part in leadership and community-building.
“We are ready to rise to the occasion and show that leadership depends on commitment and heart, not age,” Talaver said.
During the program, about 294 Sagaynon students were recognized as this year’s Bulahang Batang Sagaynon, honoring their achievements and positive contributions to their schools and communities.
CSWD officer Henrik Ollano said the city’s child protection initiatives are strengthened through close coordination among families, schools, barangays, and partner agencies.
Cueva also called for unity among parents, teachers, barangay officials, and partner-agencies to ensure that every Sagaynon child is protected, heard, and given the opportunity to succeed. ||
