“WE, LEADERS should look after the general welfare of the family as the basic unit of society,” reminded Mayor Dante Dexter A. Agatep at the culmination event of the National Children’s Month on November 30, 2023 that also echoed the concerns of the recent National Family Week.

Speaking before a crowd of child development workers, day-care teachers, and newly-appointed barangay secretaries at the Natalged a Lasam Arena, the Local Chief Executive cited their important role as front-liners in ensuring overall well-being of his youngest constituents.

Mayor Agatep commended the stewardship of Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, headed by Mrs. Nenita D. Macaspac, RSW in carrying out wholistic projects, programs, and activities for the development of Lasameño children. Towards this, the mayor also made a call for stepping-up collaboration with the Municipal Health and Nutrition Offices.

As Legislative Chair of Committee on Family, Women and Social Welfare, SB Lilibeth Barut del Rosario highlighted the crucial, heroic roles of mothers in raising the young and in the upkeep of the Lasameño family.

There was a video presentation of the MSWDO- and MHO-led activities for the observance, afterwhich the winners of the Kwelang Pamilya Lasameño photo contest were awarded. The winning photo is at the top.

During the occasion, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Reenie Heidy C. Tollo revealed that LGU-Lasam is in the running for a national recognition as a Child-friendly Municipality, after it was recently conferred the regional recognition.

The afternoon also featured mini lectures on the rights of children:

Municipal Health Officer Dr. Lorelie R. Remando spoke on Nutrition for Children and Women.

WCSAT Guidance Counsellor Excelyn G. Benitez on Child Abuse Prevention.

Police Sergeant Janet A. Acoba on Preventing Violence Against Women and Children.

Focal Person for Children and Youth Gerlyn R. Yang, who also facilitated the program, led the Panatang Makabata.