A rural barangay in Cadiz City has been named champion in child protection, across Negros Occidental, a press release from Cadiz PIO said.
Barangay Magsaysay emerged as the grand winner among 11 barangay finalists in the entire province that included candidates from Bago City, Don Salvador Benedicto, Hinobaan, Isabela, Kabankalan City, Silay City, San Carlos City, and Victorias City.
Awarding rites will be held at the social hall of the Provincial Capitol on November 27.
In the tilt led by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Brgy. Magsaysay stood out 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 hailed Brgy. Magsaysay officials and residents for an 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 “our local government values children’s welfare as an utmost priority.”
Making every barangay of Cadiz the safest place for children is “beyond public service,” but the noblest endeavor indeed, Escalante declared.
Last June, Cadiz was also chosen 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 a “from womb to tomb” initiative by the city government meant to take good care of every Cadiznon from his or her conception in the mother’s womb through astonishing and efficient government services.*