Local Government Units in Region XII that were Child-Friendly Local Governance Conferees in 2019, 2021, and 2022 were formally conferred with the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance (SCFLG) during the Regional Conferment Ceremony held at The Farm @ Carpenter Hill in Koronadal City last September 12, 2024.
A total of 24 LGUs received the said Seal, which include: Alabel, Maasim, Malapatan, and Malungon of Sarangani Province; Alamada, Arakan, Kabacan, Midsayap, and Tulunan of Cotabato Province; Norala, Polomolok, Surallah, Tantangan, and Tupi of South Cotabato Province; and Bagumbayan, Columbio, Esperanza, Isulan, Kalamansig, Kidapawan City, Lutayan, Palimbang, President Quirino, and Tacurong City of Sultan Kudarat Province.
Each of these LGUs demonstrated a firm commitment to implementing child-centered policies and programs that prioritize children's education, health, protection, and active participation in local governance.
The SCFLG is a recognition given to LGUs that have met the minimum requirements for the following five key indicators: Survival, Development, Protection, Participation, and Governance, and an overall rating of at least 80, as assessed during the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA).
On behalf of Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, OIC-Provincial Director of South Cotabato, Hayd-Ali S. Suwaib, praised the local officials for their unwavering dedication to child welfare. "As we move forward, let us continue to advocate passionately and work collaboratively to ensure that every child in the region—and beyond—receives the protection, support, and opportunities they deserve. Together, we can build a future where every child has the chance to thrive and contribute to a better world,” he said.
The SCFLG is a national initiative led by the DILG and supported by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC). It assesses and recognizes LGUs based on their performance in advancing children's rights across the critical domains of survival, development, protection, and participation.
The conferment of the seal is a testament to each LGU's commitment to fostering child-friendly communities where children can grow in safe, nurturing, and inclusive environments.
This year’s ceremony was conducted in partnership with Save the Children and the Regional Committee on the Welfare of Children (RCWC) XII - a celebration of the accomplishments of the 24 LGUs but also a reaffirmation of their shared responsibility to safeguard the future of the nation’s children.
By continually prioritizing child welfare and protection, these LGUs serve as role models for other communities across the country, ensuring a brighter and more hopeful future for every Filipino child.
