MABALACAT CITY, Pampanga — Mayor Crisostomo Garbo, along with Vice Mayor Gerald Guttrie Aquino and the City Council members, delivered the State of the Children’s Address 2023, emphasizing the city government’s unwavering commitment to the rights and welfare of the children in this city.

Focusing on the four fundamental principles outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), Mayor Garbo’s address centered on the themes of Survival Rights, Developmental Rights, Protection Rights, and Participation Rights of the children in Mabalacat City.

In his address, Garbo underscored the city’s dedication to ensuring that every child has the right to survival, including access to adequate nutrition, healthcare, and a safe living environment.

The mayor emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for the holistic development of every child, encompassing education, recreation, and cultural activities.

Garbo reiterated the city’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding children from all forms of abuse, exploitation, and neglect, thus emphasizing the need for protection rights.

He highlighted the significance of promoting children’s active participation in matters that affect them, reinforcing the principle of participation rights.

The event was also graced by elected barangay officials, along with their young representatives, department and unit heads, and the City Council for the Welfare of Children, showcasing the collaborative effort to prioritize the rights and well-being of Mabalacat’s youth.

Following Mayor Garbo’s address, Vice Mayor Aquino and city council members reaffirmed their dedication to upholding the rights of children and ensuring that their voices are heard in the decision-making processes that impact their lives.

GARBO ALLOTS P60M FOR KIDS, YOUTH PROGRAMS IN 2024

Meanwhile, Garbo also announced that they allotted a budget of more than P60 million to programs focused on young people of the city in 2024,

He said the budget is six-percent higher than the 2023 budget.

“The 2024 budget for Mabalacat children and youth, whose ages range from 8 up to 21 years old, is spread among the programs of the City Social Welfare and Development Office, City Health Office, Gender and Development Office and Local Youth Development Office,” Garbo explained.

“We are committed in protecting the rights of children and promoting their welfare,” he added.

Since Garbo served as mayor of Mabalacat, the city was conferred the Child-Friendly Award by the Department of the Interior and Local Government while the National Nutrition Council had given the Nutrition Honor Award to Mabalacat City.