National Children’s Month to raise mental health awareness and more interventions

To boost advocacy on the welfare and protection of children, the provincial government, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), successfully participated in the 30th National Children’s Month (NCM) kick-off ceremony held at the Capitol lobby on November 8, 2022.

This year’s theme, “Kalusugan, Kaisipan, at Kapakanan ng Bawat Bata Ating Tutukan,” focused on the mental health and well-being of children after the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) found out that in 2021 mental health was among the problems encountered by children due to the pandemic.

Around 400 children participated in the festivities, as they received loot bags, party snacks, and were entertained by clown shows. Filipina child star/actress Yesha Camile also gave an inspirational message and song to the children. 

Meanwhile, Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga administered the oath to parents and teachers (Panatang Makabata), emphasizing the importance of protecting children’s rights.

Provincial Child Welfare Focal Preciosa Toledo said that the provincial government will continue to strengthen its mental health support services for children. Such interventions include psychosocial treatments, counseling, family therapy, support hotlines, and among others.

Other programs for the children included the provincial children’s congress and Bulilit Fun Day participated by the daycare children of the province.

On the culmination day, November 28, 2022, Governor Gonzaga also presented her Local State of the Children’s Report highlighting the successful implementation of programs, projects and activities related to the continued advocacy of children’s rights to survival, development, protection, and participation.

Under Republic Act 10661, the month of November is designated as NCM celebration to commemorate the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) on November 20, 1989. (Jaynus Fernandez)