ILOILO—The Iloilo Provincial Government strengthened its commitment to youth development with the construction of a Teen Center at New Lucena National Comprehensive High School, aimed at addressing issues related to mental health, teenage pregnancy, and substance abuse.
According to Teen Center Coordinator Lea Mae Oliveros, the facility will serve as a safe space for over 900 students, providing a haven where they can relax, socialize, and seek support.
“It is a place where teenagers can stay, play, have fun, and meet new friends. They can also talk to their peers,” Oliveros said during the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday morning.
The center will also have peer helpers trained to assist students in opening up about their problems and seeking guidance. The provincial government allocated P3.5-million to construct the building project.
Beyond supporting students of New Lucena National Comprehensive High School, the facility—known as Teen Center 2.0—will also extend its services to the youth of New Lucena through the Rural Health Unit, particularly in addressing the rising cases of teenage pregnancy.
Designed as a one-story building with complete amenities, the Teen Center 2.0 is focused on youth development and empowerment. The project is the brainchild of Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. through the Provincial Population Office (PPO).
During the ceremony, PPO head Atty. Roel Von Superio highlighted the symbolic significance of laying the time capsule, saying, “We are sending a message to the future that today, we believe in our youth.”
Defensor took pride in Iloilo being the only province in the country to construct dedicated teen centers. He emphasized that the facility reflects the provincial government’s holistic approach to youth development, going beyond academics to include psychosocial well-being.
“We want a total approach to your development. Our school is not complete without a teen center that will house all programs intended for the youth,” Defensor said.