For advocating children’s rights and welfare, the City Government of Navotas bagged the 2018 Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance conferred by the Council for the Welfare of Children.
Mayor Toby Tiangco, together with members of the Navotas City Council for the Protection of Children, received the SCFLG during the awarding ceremony at Sofitel Hotel in Pasay.
“The future of Navotas lies in the hands of our children. To have a bright tomorrow, we must ensure that our young ones enjoy good health, learn the right values, gain quality learning, and are protected from any harm,” Tiangco said.
The conferment of the Seal was based on the results of the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit conducted annually in all local government units nationwide.
The audit consisted of 12 indicators to measure an LGUs performance in the delivery of services that uplift the welfare status of children.
Indicators included a reduction in deaths among children under five years old, reduction in children under six years old with below normal weights; rise in 3-4-year old children attending daycare; and completion rate for elementary schooling
Also included is the absence or reduction of child labor cases; percentage reduction in the number of children victims of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation; and safety measures for children in the community and schools, among others.
Tiangco expressed appreciation to the city government’s employees, officials and partners for their contribution towards achieving the award.
“As leaders, we must continue to take into consideration our children’s best interests as we plan and implement our projects and programs. Our decisions today will greatly impact their future,” he said.
To qualify for the SCFLG, LGUs are expected to ensure that children’s rights to survival, development, protection, and participation are upheld and given priority in planning, budgeting, legislation and delivery of services.