Zamboanga del Sur has been implementing the UNICEF’s Sixth Country Programme for Children since 2005 and near to end by 2009.

With two more years to go, the lady Governor expressed optimism that with a well integrated and unified efforts among all the 27 local government units in the province to include Pagadian City, they could fully meet the goals of the program for children seeing their lives and women changed and improved.

For the Cerilles Administration to afford better services to the people; addressing the urgent necessities for health, education and other basic social amenities, it needs a strong backing from the legislative department of every LGU.

Invited during the advocacy meeting were all the municipal mayors of the 26 municipalities and City Mayor Sammy Co along with SB members heading Committees on Health, Education, Appropriation, Women, Family and Children.

“The children are our precious heritage from God.  Together let us build hope and brighter tomorrow for the Children of  Zamboanga del Sur,” Cerilles’ stated as read by Provincial Administrator Pepito Degamo last November 14.

Governor Cerilles was in Manila at the time for a more pressing commitment.  Her vice chair of the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children DILG Provincial Director Abcede Asjali presided the meeting.

With legislators holding chairmanship of committees concerning the advancement of women and children, the Governor wished that Local School and Health Boards in municipalities will be functional so that vital issues can be promptly treated and be brought to the attention of concerned agencies and individuals who have the power and authority to address them.

With the turn of numerous crime-related incidents affecting women and children today, local laws must be duly legislated and effected for the protection of the interest of women and children, Cerilles emphasized.

She guided the local legislators with the importance of the Four Gifts for Children. “It serves as our anchor in validating the efficacy of existing plans, policies and programs for children that are being implemented. It provides the direction in fulfilling the mandate of the Conventions on the Rights of the Child (CRC), advocating the protection of Children’s rights, as we help build a better life and nurturing environment for our children.

Moreover, Cerilles was hoping that these instruments had already been formulated and regularly updated for durable outcomes.

Cerilles has called for LGU officials’ full support to the implementation of programs and projects geared toward reaching the aims of CPC-6. 

She urged them to do their best in fostering an environment that is compassionate to the survival, development, protection and participation rights of children.

Last update : 22-11-2007 10:51

Average user rating

   (0 vote)