Magsaysay, one of the rural barangays in Cadiz City, has been named champion in child protection across Negros Occidental.
Magsaysay emerged as the grand winner among 11 barangay finalists in the entire province that included those from Bago City, Don Salvador Benedicto, Hinoba-an, Isabela, Kabankalan City, Silay City, San Carlos City, and Victorias City.
Awarding was held at the social hall of the provincial Capitol in Bacolod City Nov. 27.
Magsaysay stood out in the contest, led by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, for establishing a 24/7 child helpline, conducting educational campaigns on anti-bullying, child abuse prevention, and fostering partnerships with schools.
Magsaysay Barangay Captain Heide Zaldivia said, “This award demonstrates our community’s commitment to ensuring that every child grows up in a safe and nurturing environment.”
“It also inspires us to continue working towards sustainable and inclusive child protection programs,” she added.
Cadiz Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. hailed Magsaysay officials and residents for their exemplary performance in initiating the best programs aimed at protecting every child in their village.
The mayor said this particular accolade spelled a lot of significance for the city as it represents how the local government values children’s welfare as an utmost priority.
Making every barangay of Cadiz a safest place for children is “beyond public service”, but a noblest endeavor, indeed, Escalante declared.
In June, Cadiz was also chosen as among the top four local governments in the component city category in the maiden “Walang Gutom” Awards, led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) nationwide.
Cadiz’s entry bannered Project PAT-BAGSIK (Pagkaon Aton Tatapon-Bata Aton Giyahan sa Iya Kaalam) – a holistic approach to sustainable food security.
Project PAT-BAGSIK is also dubbed as an initiative “from tomb to womb” by the city government, meant to take good care of every Cadiznon since his or her conception, through astonishing and efficient government services.
Escalante stressed: “Every child in Cadiz matters.” ||
